Was talking to a local alternator rebuilder and asked if he did any cosmetic work. He said he didn't, but offered me a new front and back case that I could paint myself, and then he would build the alternator into that case. He didn't warn me too much, except to keep the paint out of the back bearing.
Figured I should use high heat paint, but should I look at getting it powder coated? Any thoughts?

Just bumping this up.
No one has done this?

Powder coating will last longer and has a smoother finish.
A good high temp paint applied properly will look good and costs a lot less.
Just cover the bearing with tape, clean the pieces let dry and start with a few light misting coats.