Bolts on the muffler and painting the muffler

[libindaniel2000]

I was planning on replacing my exhaust gaskets and painting the muffler black as well. Would the flameproof VHT high temp paint be enough for the painting the muffler? I was planning on using a grey primer, flat black paint and a satin gloss clear coat.
Also, the bolts need replacement and I was wondering if anyone knows the specifications on those bolts? I looked online and it is like 15 bucks to get four of them. However, I have access to a machine shop and would be able to get those bolts with no pain if I knew their size information.
Any help would be appreciated.

[pandymai]

CAREFULLY remove the bolts and take them to your shop. get them matched and youre good to go. or you could do like some would suggest and even ask your shop to get chrome plated studs to use instead of bolting the exhaust back on.

as far as the paint goes, many people use quite a few things. it's pretty standard to have to redo the exhaust every few years.  unless you prep perfectly and use an extremely high heat resistant paint, and never get rocks and dings from the road on the exhaust, maybe your exhaust will stay super for a long time.

this forum is a lot about testing things. so maybe you can be one of the first to use the specific product. show us step by step what you did and take pictures of before and after. maybe even in a few months let us know how the paint has held up.

[gotkids]

I painted my exhaust a few days ago.  Stripped it back to the metal.  Then just used the VHT Flameproof Matt Black on it.  There really isn't need for any other paint on it.  I'm replacing the stock exhaust soon so I wasn't too worried about the job on it, just a quickie that I'll redo once I cut the stock system.

VHT has a white primer and a clear coat.  They don't do gloss.  They are easy to apply, instructions on the can are pretty clear. 

[libindaniel2000]

Thanks for the replies, guys.
I will be getting the bolts soon form the shop. With my friend's help, I will also be painting the muffler in this week. I am thinking about using all three steps: primer, paint and clear coat and will see how it comes out.
Hopefully, I will have a step-by-step process going on as well.
Thanks for the encouragement!