ok, so I'm not ready to put performance headers on this car (maybe my next -- trying to get my hands on a 97 accord). But I want to do something about its aesthetics. So here are some options I have come across.

a) grind/sand it down and then finish it off with some clear high-temp enamel.

PROBLEMS: I can't get it out of the car (I may try again but its not likely to result any different). So I can do a pretty decent job of sanding it down, but what am I supposed to do to seal it off/protect it? Is clear gloss high-temp paint enough (even if I do manage to tape and wrap neighboring parts) ?

b) remove it completely

PROBLEMS: I've heard some ppl have had complications with stop exhaust manifolds w/out a heat shield. And some stuff about how this will expose the cat converter to the elements which isn't good.


Could someone please clear me up on some of those questions?