I just received a new set of aftermarket y block valve covers from Classic Industries to be used on my stock 56 Victoria with the 292 . I wonder if anyone knows for sure if they should be gloss or satin black. Out of the box, they appear to be satin black, not gloss that I was expecting. I am a purist and would like to keep my car as original as possible and would spray them with a gloss black engine paint if that is what they came with from the factory. I also wonder if the satin finish out of the box is enough to prevent corrosion by itself. So far I am pleased with the stampings and don't see any flaws or ripples. The ones I had were rusted on the inside and were over torqued over the years. I do have a set of Thunderbird V/8 decals that I will put on. I hope perhaps one of the crown vic experts might know for sure which black is original or anyone else who has used these will know if they need to be painted to prevent corrosion. Thanks

They were satin black.
I have owned 12 55/56 fords in 50+ years of buying and selling good original or correctly restored Ford cars. (I'm 83 years old)

Website does not state life or durability of the paint. I would repaint it with plenty colour of choice..


1936 Ford 3W Coupe : 56 T-Bird 312, 47 Packard 3 speed, 40 juice brakes.
1968 Merc Cyclone FB GT 390, Getting a better front clip!
1977 Ford F-250 Supercab RWD Explorer Long box.
1976 Chev Camaro RS LT
Future rebuild : 1949 Ford F-1

Thank you Lou. I have just turned 70 and have owned 8 55-56 Fords but never had one low mileage enough to determine if they were gloss or satin . Actually, until now, I never paid much attention to them. There is a big difference between the two shades and the purist in me tells me to leave them satin and put on the decals. I get a lot of satisfaction in putting something back to the way it came from the factory. I actually prefer paint and decals over the chrome covers.

Hi geo56
I've wondered about that coating on aftermarket sheet metal. I believe it is an electrically deposited paint. Kind of like electroplating.
I would lightly abrade the surface and paint whatever colour/color you fancy.
But be careful I haven't a clue what I'm talking about!
stuey   

GEO56...I would repaint them as they were most likely not primed before painting.. The factory didn't prime first which is the reason paint on the rocker covers, air cleaner,etc didn't hold up.