im planning on painting my differential covers red, any suggestions on what type of paint and clear cloats?

 

Nail polish. It'll make a day of it. And keep you from any honey-do list.

 

Clean the cover thoroughly with a wire wheel and then wash it with a degreaser and finally wipe with an alcohol rag or spray it down with brake parts cleaner.

I suggest a self etching primer, almost a must for aluminum, but works well on steel too. After that dries, sand down any lumps or over spray. Spray it with some engine enamel or high heat paint. Read the label carefully and let the paint fully cure if you choose to add a clear coat. I usually don't use an aftermarket clear coat as I have heard most of them will yellow in a higher heat usage and your diff can get hot especially after a long run.