Should I paint horizontal air scoop brackets?

[TCONROY]

I'm about to rivet the 3 metal brackets onto the fiberglass air scoop (horizontal induction). Curious what you all have done to finish the metal brackets? Only concern I have is paint or powder coat chipping off under the air filter and going into the fuel servo/engine. Should I leave them unfinished?

 

[cubdriver]

air box

Yes - leave them unfinished for the very reason you describe. Also there is alot of fuel residue in that area which is tough on any finish.