Hood Insulation

[Krayzie]

wondering is this hood insulation thing would make any difference in the winter time. I'm thinking no much because of the gaps around the hood that would let out heat anyways...plus it costs $75

http://www.collegehillshonda.com/sto..._insulator.jpg

[dcb]

insulation isn't a bad idea at the right place and time, but I can't see that $75 thing doing much overall, and certainly will not pay for itself, ever.

[AeroModder]

I removed mine when I put in my hood vents. Now I can block the grille even more because the engine runs cooler.

[vtec-e]

I use a sheet of aluminium backed fibreglass insulation on top of my engine. I helped a lot while the block heater was heating the engine during our recent cold spell. It also helped keep the engine a few degrees hotter while driving too although i had to be more careful to not let it overheat.
I might take it out for the summer but i'll definitely put it back on in october/november.

ollie

[PaleMelanesian]

I'd guess it helps. Look at the pattern of drying dew or rain on the car when it's warmed up. On mine, most of the heat escapes from a relatively small area in the middle of the hood.

[Chalupa102]

I personally wouldn't buy that one that you have listed. I got Techmat from ebay for about $27 plus shipping installed under my hood. It made a nice difference during the cold of the winter. If you want/need any more info, let me know

[Piwoslaw]

Hood blanket... literally? (engine compartment thermal insulation)
Frank Lee had picture of an engine insulated with... cardboard! But it appears that the picture is gone.

[dcb]

If you want to save some heat for later you could do like the prius.

If you could find a couple thermoses at the thrift store, it might be worth it to try to capture some hot coolant when you shut down and reintroduce it at startup. Needs plumbing/pumping skillz, but could be done pretty cheap. Might want to limit how many psi you expose the thermos(es) too, and don't make it leaky.

Could also use a cooler or something, might cheaper and larger capacity, but will be less insulated and bulkier.

[Frank Lee]

Originally Posted by Piwoslaw

Hood blanket... literally? (engine compartment thermal insulation)
Frank Lee had picture of an engine insulated with... cardboard! But it appears that the picture is gone.

Developed for winter commuting (but now I run 'em year around)