Determining cylinder type

[NotarPilot]

I seem to recall my mechanic telling me that you can determine what kind of cylinders you have based on the color they spray the cooling fins.  Does anyone know if this is correct or know what colors mean what?

[smwash02]

Gray/unpainted - Standard Steel

Orange - Chrome plated

Blue stripe - Nitride hardened

[EricJ]

https://www.lycoming.com/content/understanding-engine-color-codes

 

[NotarPilot]

Thanks guys

[1964-M20E]

Since we are talking cylinder types. Which one is the best?

If you are buying new cylinders which would you get?

I know this might be a LOP vs ROP type thing.

[EricJ]

2 hours ago, 1964-M20E said:

Since we are talking cylinder types. Which one is the best?

If you are buying new cylinders which would you get?

I know this might be a LOP vs ROP type thing.

I'm sure there's a variety of opinion, but from what I've seen nitrided seems to be the preferred general selection.

 

[Ragsf15e]

Chrome is out of favor but you can get them when you overhaul if you want.  I have them and I wouldn’t recommend.

Steel seems most popular but if you’re worried about corrosion, I think there’s an option for nickel plating from continental prime?

[1964-M20E]

Another question if buying a new cylinder which manufacturer and reasons why?

ECI?

Superior?

Lycoming?