[69hugger]

Congrats!! Nice score!
I had a new intake manifold powder coated in a matte clear epoxy that looked great, was hard to tell it was coated, and kept the manifold looking new for years. Oil, coolant, and normal grime just wiped off.
I would think that would work well for your pumpkin as well. If you do so, make sure you use washers under the bolt heads so as not to mar the powder coating.

If you decide that piece is too nice to use, let's talk.

Bill