So I want to paint my valve cover...

[DSM_421]

I know most people will powder coat it or even anodize it, but I want to do it my self, and for basically free.

So I did a quick search and didn't come up with anything too useful on how to paint a valve cover.

I just want to hear a quick run down from someone who has either done this them selves or is pretty familiar with painting. I my self have never painted anything in my life.

I'm guessing a basic procedure would be to...

1. Brake clean the shit out of the valve cover.
2. Look for cracks and imperfections.
3. Sand the valve cover, then tape off what I don't want painted.
4. Lay a primer or base coat down???
5. Wait 15 minutes after step 4 and hit it with the color I want. (high temp paint obviously)
6. Wait 15 minutes and hit it with another coat.
7. Wait another 15 minutes, hit it with the final coat of paint.
8. Wait until dry, hit it with a few coats of clear, waiting 15 minutes between each coat?

Please feel free to add / remove / fix any of my steps. I have no idea really how to paint, just a general concept. I know this probably won't look the most professional, but to be honest I don't care I just want to have fun doing this.

Thanks!