Has anyone tried a graphite based wood stove dressing for ex manifolds? This seems like a possiblity and is less $$ than the Calix stuff. As the wax burns off (probably it really evaporates) the graphite is left on the cast iron surface. The graphite has a real affinity for the cast iron especially if it is cleaned first and graphite is definitely not affected by heat. I have not done this because my manifolds were painted with HT paint after blasting but this might be better. Here is some info on one brand.
Williams Stove Polish is a black semi-solid paste wax used to preserve and restore the beauty of unpainted cast iron stoves. Because Williams Stove Polish is made from natural waxes and the blackest pigments, it can be buffed to a dark lustrous glow. When used on new stoves, it preserves the metal and helps prevent rust. Use it on old rusty stoves to renew and re-black the surface and to help prevent further deterioration. Williams Stove Polish can be used on grills, ornamental iron work, fences or wherever a rich shiny glow is desired. Especially recommended for preserving heating equipment stored out of season. Williams Stove Polish comes in a 3.25 ounce tube.
A few minutes of rubbing with William's Stove Polish, and now our old, old Morso looks like new perfectly black and very pretty.
I was very happy with this product. Application was easy, the stove looks brand-new, and the odor produced when the stove was fired up wasn't unbearable and it didn't persist too long.
Does not give off excessive smoke and odors when stove is used after polishing, like other brands I have used. I plan to use this product again.
Excellent product. I use it to protect the magazines on my AR and AK rifles. Easy to apply, holds up to wear and requires no special tools or processes. An old product I uses stove black on our pot bellied coal stoves as one of my chores when I was a little kid that has stood the test of time!! Highly recommend.
The Highlands, Louisville, Ky.
