full wheel covers & brake heat

[Buddy]

I'm working with a body shop to do some aerodynamic modifications to my vehicle, one of which is installing aluminum racing discs over the now spoke steel wheels. They were asking me if I had considered the possible problem of insufficient brake cooling - I had not. (My vechicle has all disc brakes.) Does anyone think that this is a problem?

[Daox]

It won't be a problem unless you slam your brakes on multiple times within a short period of time. Any decent ecodriver would not heat the brakes up enough to cause problems. Of course there are always exceptions like driving down a mountain...

[SL8Brick]

If you find yourself warping brake rotors and/or going through brake pads quickly, you can always machine some symetrical holes in the aluminum discs for additional cooling if necessary.

FWIW, I used to sell unvented "Kleen Wheels" dust shields back in the `80s. Only a few of my clients had mild brake overheating issues with them. Then again, "Kleen Wheels" shields fit inside the wheel and 'capture' more heat close to the caliper. Granted, all depends on the vehicle & driving conditions but I'd say as long as you're aware of the possibility and remain light on the brake pedal, you'll be ok.

[brucey]

I've driven a loaded, un-braked trailer (4000 lbs of car, 1000 lbs of trailer) through WV mountains with covered wheels without any brake fade. Unless you're racing, I don't think it will be a problem.

[PaleMelanesian]

It's really not a problem. I proved it to a friend by finishing a drive and reaching around and touching the brake disc with my bare hands. It was barely warm.

If you're overheating the brakes, you need to change your driving style. Since you're asking about smooth wheel covers, I must assume you've already made that modification, so again - no problem.

[aerohead]

So far,I've not experienced any problems.I'm very conservative and drive way ahead,alllow closed throttle engine braking on approach to stops,and am light-footed on the pedal.

[Weather Spotter]

I have had smooth wheel covers on my car since Aug or about 6-7K miles. Several mountain trips and have had zero issues.

[Buddy]

Thanks for all of the feedback! I have about 4 aerodynamic modifications to make, so we will see what the total MPG gain will be. With gas prices threatening to go up, I need all the help I can get.

[Vekke]

Also me no problems with brakes, even when braking down to 0 from high speeds like 160 km/h

First most important four mods would be (my opinion)
- smooth wheelscovers
- Grill block
- belly pan or full smooth undertray
- rear fender skirts

Those dont reguire much skills only time tools and effect should be about 10-15% fuel savings.

[Buddy]

I am planning to do 3 of the 4 modifications that you mentioned. But what is a 'grill block'?