I bought hi-temp paint from Hirsch...kind of expensive. Blue paint for my valve covers and thermostat housing and black for the air cleaner assembly and upper baffle/radiator support.

Should I have bought primer as well? Do I need to primer the valve covers before painting?

Any prep tips before I start?

 

I've painted mine several times...remove the rubber, use paint stripper, and shoot a few coats over the bare metal. I've tried primer and it doesn't seem to add to the quality. Use a heat gun to install new rubber. If you're replacing the valve cover gaskets, glue them in before painting.