Finishes and Construction of PML Pans and Covers

We believe in producing the highest quality part possible. PML pans and covers come in several finishes to accommodate a variety of requirements and aesthetics.

Finishes

PML offers parts in polished, powder coated, and a natural sand cast aluminum. The only difference between the finishes is how the part looks, no difference in function.

Polish Finish

For the polish finish, the natural cast parts are hand polished. Our polish finish parts are frequently used on show trucks and cars but our polish finish is not fully show polished. For example, the area between the fins is not polished and small corners are not detailed. By leaving the areas between the fins unpolished, we believe the fins and script stand out and we are able to produce a beautiful polished piece at a reasonable price.

If you need a fully show polished piece, you can purchase the polish part and go from there or purchase the as cast part and have it polished to your specifications.

Cast aluminum parts have a rougher surface finish than billet or stamped parts. When cast aluminum parts are polished, it is not uncommon for some porosity (very small holes) to be uncovered. To our customers this is a sign that these parts are unique and produced in small quantities.

The polish finish requires careful handling and maintenance. For that reason, most polish finish parts are found at shows or on restored classics, not on work trucks or daily drivers.

The polish finish is NOT chrome. A sand cast aluminum part that is chromed will still have the texture of sand. Chromed parts are shiny all over and look different than polished sand cast aluminum parts.

Powder Coat Finishes

PML's powder coat finish is baked on the sand cast parts. After powder coating, we brush the top of the fins and script to remove the powder coating and the aluminum shines.

PML offers powder coated finishes in standard colors. For the transmission pans and differential covers, we offer black powder coating. For some valve covers we offer other standard powder coat finishes as well.

If you want a custom color, we recommend you purchase an as-cast part and have it powder-coated locally to match.

Powder coated parts are the easiest to keep clean.

There is some debate that powder coating increases or decreases amount of heat that a part can dissipate but we do not know of any scientific studies.

Natural As-Cast Finish

The natural cast finish is a silvery-gray color. It is the basic finish.

PML parts will not rust as they are aluminum. Generally, PML differential covers and transmission pans are chemically sealed to resist corrosion.

Folks who want a custom color purchase the cast finish and then powder coat or paint their cover or pan themselves or at a local shop.

Construction

PML uses high grade aircraft quality aluminum and makes parts using the sand casting process. This is the same processes that are used to make intake manifolds, water pumps, and engine blocks. Sand cast parts have the texture of fine sand. PML covers and pans are manufactured in Southern California in small batches, not in huge quantities offshore.

The design and construction provides strength. The walls and the gasket flanges are thick. PML parts will not bend or flex. The result is added strength to the transmission case or differential housing and gasket flanges that provide a secure seal.

Aluminum material promotes heat dissipation. This aids in cooling transmission and differential fluid to keep the fluid lubricating gears and seals.