Jean
the pitting is often deeper than it looks and I use a drimmel tool to clean
the crud out this also helps the JB grip the aluminum.
 I just installed some rebuilt AMC heads on my own van
I stopped reusing OEM heads years ago to many problems.
The victor rintz gasket sets have 2 tubes of the dealer type sealant that's
what I use.
 I take allot of engines apart and see the huge amounts of sealant used more
is not better
the head surface needs a small 1mm bead of sealant the OEM type tube has a
small applicator the just right for this
As for spray paints I am tiring a high temp paint on my exhaust and the AMC
rebuilt heads on both the gasket surface the exposed surface time will tell.
The reason this paint caught my eye is that the jet washing cabinet does not
take this paint off its high temp hard hat by rustolem
as you bring the head down to the gasket wiggle the head and unload the
sideways pressure of the head. The head contacts the gasket at an angle
because  the push rod tubes
do both heads at once and get it over with the other gasket does not look
any better than the one you have off.

Bob Donalds
Boston Engine
508 358 6264

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----- Original Message -----
From: "Jean-Woo Kim" <jkim.phd@GMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, February 12, 2006 9:02 PM
Subject: Anyone tried coating/painting the pitted head surface?

I have one side of my 87 Westy's head out now and examining it. Upon
careful cleaning, it does not look too pitted. I am wondering if
anyone has ever tried spray painting/coating the surface to fill up
the tiny pittings rather than using J-B Weld. I have in mind those
high-temp spray paints they have at FLAPS for exhaust manifolds. Any
thoughts on this issue? For the sealant I am going with the Right
Stuff as some have suggested in place of the one came with the kit. I
would appreciate your comments.

Jean-Woo