i sanded mine down started with 400 grit worked up to 2000 grit trust me it wasnt fun i did it by hand took all day then i cleaned it on day two used dawn(that cuts grease) on the heat pad that is on the bottom and washed it out with the hose then after letting it dry (i used a blow dryer to speed it up cause it started to rain that day) next day it was 100% dry i used 3 coats of gloss black rust o'leum then 3 coats of engine enamel (clear coat) ill put up pics but its pourin today ill try and get out there i think it came great i painted my fuse box the same but i didnt sand it just cleaned it with soap and water and it came just as good. Also any paint i use on my engine bay or for anything under the hood is high heat