First of all I would apply a generous amount of lithium grease to the threads, as for the head you have a few options. Stock was the "zink" steel color...you can get a small touch up paint brush and brush the heads a zink or body color. You can also brush clear coat on them. All depends what you're after...stock, rust prevention, looks... They are not very visible so unless you're building a show car, I would recommend using the body color.