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Old Jun 27, 2011 | 07:53 PM
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Default aerodynamics and cooling

OK so the car didn't come with the covering that forces the air into the radiator as well as the front diffuser that draws the air in. I have not gone to the dealer to replace the parts yet. instead I took it into my own hands to make the parts until I really need to buy them. I know, I know, why mess around and just get my @$$ down to the dealer and get them...... Reason.... MONEY!!! They want $150 something for the rad part and I found the front dif for $85 ish. Now, I already know the car has a cooling issue at high speeds (about 85mph up before parts made). So, I made a lip that is secured under the rad (hangs about 1 1/2 down) and a top cover that should force the air through the rad instead of over it. Does anyone enjoy making things like this as I do or am I out in left field here?

Couple things to add about this. I already made sure the lines were clear, added water wetter, and I know the thermo is work as cruising around town the car stay very cool.... and I'm in Glendale, Arizona ( I know its freaking hot ).


let me know if you guys have Ideas or have done something like this before.

pictures to follow soon.
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Old Jun 28, 2011 | 04:15 AM
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Anyone do anything like this or know any good info to help?
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Old Jun 28, 2011 | 07:06 AM
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Originally Posted by shockwaveAZ
Does anyone enjoy making things like this as I do or am I out in left field here?
Modifying your car is one thing, cobbling it together because you're cheap.....is entirely another. Your choice.....
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Old Jun 28, 2011 | 07:30 AM
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Yeah, I've got to agree with Lucky on this. If you are going to do the job, do it right. Now if you were doing this as a temp fix while waiting on the parts to arrive, I can understand but otherwise...I just had to replace the center air deflector on my '99 as it got damaged beyond use and sure enough, I was having a cooling issue. All good now with the new one. It cost me $90 with shipping for the OEM but there's aftermarket, all three pieces for about the same price if you shop around.
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Old Jun 28, 2011 | 01:05 PM
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well I wouldn't say being cheap has anything to do with this as i just did a full maintenance and added some performance parts to the car. I guess the real reason I'm doing this is I had the materials around and wanted to make something that I couple incorporate as more force feed to the intakes as well. So really I'm making something like the Hurricane Air Intake System while using it for the radiator as well. Again, maybe I'm in left field or not explaining it right :o
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Old Jun 28, 2011 | 01:17 PM
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But maybe I should just get the oem parts and not mess with getting the addition stuff
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Old Jun 28, 2011 | 01:24 PM
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Whatever you do, just understand that the air deflectors under there are very important and in this case, there's not a lot you can get around on the airflow patterns feeding the condensor/radiator.
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Old Jun 28, 2011 | 01:30 PM
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Originally Posted by dgrant3830
Whatever you do, just understand that the air deflectors under there are very important and in this case, there's not a lot you can get around on the airflow patterns feeding the condensor/radiator.
OK, thats what I was really looking for. I didn't realize there wouldn't really be any benefit of doing this or not. Ill just go pick up the OEM stuff. Thanks for the help
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Old Jun 28, 2011 | 01:48 PM
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Originally Posted by dgrant3830
Whatever you do, just understand that the air deflectors under there are very important and in this case, there's not a lot you can get around on the airflow patterns feeding the condensor/radiator.
I removed the air dam/deflectors, all 3 pieces as I was sick of it scraping on almost everything. I put a 160 stat in and my fans come on sooner, installed Z06 screens, removed the plastic fog light things and punched out my front plate. I have driven in 97* weather for hours and have never had an overheating issue, or even close. The air deflectors are important, but if you take the proper steps, you can remove them!

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Old Jun 28, 2011 | 02:38 PM
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The parts you're trying to fab up aren't really that complicated. I think if you're willing to experiment with a custom air deflector, and your car runs at a decent temp., then go right ahead and do it. You just need to be aware of your operating temps, and decide accordingly. GL.

Oh, BTW, Blitz, your car looks real cool (pun not intended) with all the deflectors off, and the rest of your appearence mods to the front end.
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Old Jun 28, 2011 | 04:53 PM
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Nothing wrong with fabbing your own parts. I just think the shroud and such is cheap enough that it wouldn't be worth the time. I had to replace mine (broke it) and I just bought a used one from one of the corvette recycling places. It was like $50 or something.

Dope
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