Zircotec launches glossy black coating for cast manifolds

Zircotec has launched a new ceramic coating to replicate the vitreous enamel finish of Jaguar manifolds. The product protects under-bonnet components and bodywork from the effects of heat and is suitable for all six cylinder Jaguars manufactured between 1948 and the mid-1980s. The coatings manufacturer says its “Liquid Black” ceramic coating “solves the long standing durability issues of the original enamel finish whilst also reducing under-bonnet temperatures, adding that the product had been tested to a simulated 100,000 miles of use.

According to Zircotec, by far the highest proportion of classic car customers seeking a Zircotec coating is Jaguar owners. “Many E-Type, MkII, XK and early XJ owners wish to retain the glossy enamel finish from the factory but even on new reproduction parts it can’t withstand the heat cycling and just doesn’t last. It ends up looking very tatty and won’t help lower underbonnet temperatures,” says Zircotec’s sales director Peter Whyman. “We set out therefore to create a new coating that would look ‘period correct’ but would also offer a significant thermal barrier performance.”

Zircotec’s Liquid Black coating keeps heat inside the exhaust, helping to prevent damage to surrounding paintwork, lowering cockpit temperatures and avoiding fuel evaporation issues during hot start-up.  “The coating can withstand exhaust gas temperatures of 600°C and testing has shown it to maintain its appearance in use. Unsightly paint cracking on E-Types around the louvres and stifling temperatures in the cockpit could be eliminated by using our technology,” suggests Whyman.

“We wanted a finish that would respond to the needs of Jaguar owners, a finish that would be long lasting, durable and robust. Liquid Black™ has passed our rigorous test regime.  All parts are coated at Zircotec’s Abingdon factory. Customers can send either new or used cast manifolds and we will prepare, clean and apply the multi layer coating,” adds Whyman. “We turn round parts typically in under 10 days.” 

Available now, the coating costs £330 for a pair of cast manifolds for a six cylinder engine.

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