Chroming intake manifold...
 

Is it possible to chrome an intake manifold? Are there any concerns that I should be aware of before attempting this?

If it's metal, it can be chromed! :yes:

Is it a good idea...I dunno. I think you'd want to build block off plates for the interior, but I really don't see a reason why it shouldn't be done otherwise.

Someone who knows better will probably chime in, though.:faint:

an aluminum intake can be chromed... but unlike steel where the part is copper plated first and polished to smooth the last imperfections.. you apply chrome dirrectly to aluminum, so you have to get the polishing PERFECT..... also not every plater chromes aluminum so ask arround first.. its supposed to be tricky, so chances are that they will tell you that it might, might not go well.. and that its problem if it doesnt (atleast thate the message i got once)

the idea of blocking off the interior might be a realy good one... id hate to have my engine swallow a chrome flake!

Heat soak? Won't the chrome be more apt to keep the heat trapped in the part?

Yeah, but whether or not it matters is going to depend on the car. IF you have a manifold with water passages, I think you'd be ok. A few degrees difference, I'm sure, but not much. Typically the convective cooling around an intake manifold is very inefficient as it is, so you're not really changing much, I'd think.

Plus, unless it's a race car, the heat soak is only a problem at idle and in traffic. Otherwise the air is moving way too fast through the manifold to pick up much heat.

My concern with the block off plates is for manifolds with water passages concerns heat transfer, though. If you chrome the passages, you can't get the heat out. Though it might help you by keeping the coolant cooler as it flows through the heads...

It would be an aluminum intake and it will make a lot of power but is merely a street / show car.

Please post more comments. Your comments have been helpful.

Check these guys: http://www.hotrodlane.cc/

They can allso polish and chrome yours too .

They look pretty good. Have you had any work done by them or know anyone that has?