Grill Blocking/Air Intake...Work in Progress

[DarbyWalters]

Hard to see that the two slots on the passenger side are really a duct (grey for now) to get more air into the CRD. The three grill blocks on the drivers side is made out of some material I found behind my business. I might go ahead and block off the next two over to test..I should still get plenty from under the bumper. I am sure they would be better aero wise if they were on the outside of the grill but they look better like this...

[brucepick]

Where does the duct go? I see that CRD is the model.

Anyway, it looks pretty good. Should help reduce heat loss to air blowing through the engine bay. Also should reduce warmup time.

[DarbyWalters]

The "duct" catches clean air and directs it up to the top of the hood...near the air inlet...I put a 2002 Air Box because it has a top load snorkel for cleaner air. The original duct took dirtier wet (if raining) air and the filters got wet and clogged very quickly.

[DarbyWalters]

Went ahead and finished it off...going to replace two of the ones that are a bit off in the morning. I tell you, the engine comes up to temp quickly and holds the temps much longer when the engine has been shut off...should help mph a bit more.

[DarbyWalters]

Well with "Full Grill Block", MPG dropped significantly. Was getting better with 4 of 7 blocked. I think because I am in San Antonio, Tx...some grill block is OK but it is not cold enuff for a full grill block. The intercooler still needs a cool supply of air. Also the CRD runs cool...168 degrees...and if the ECM detects higher temps it makes changes that cut back on power. For a smaller car this might work but for a 4300# SUV is actually hurts. I am back to just three slots open and testing.

[DarbyWalters]

The Three (3) middle slots are now open...the second on the passenger side leads to the air box...