How durable , long lasting are the ceramic coatings on hedders ?

Thanks for the great tip about the stainless hardware, Leanna!

The reason the header mfgs. say not to use on a fresh engine is usually "do not use to break in a new engine". This is because new flat-tappet cammed engines need to run at 2500 rpm for 20 minutes to safely break-in the new cam. If you're running a little lean on your fuel mixture your engine will create too much exhaust heat and discolor the ceramic finish.
Roller cams do not require such a break-in.
Best to run any break-in period with a slightly rich fuel mix.