09-27-2018, 04:55 PM
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#1 (permalink)
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Batman Junior
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: 1000 Islands, Ontario, Canada
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5-minute DIY: cockpit-adjustable variable grille block (1-way)
Step 1...
Coroplast blocking plate over existing custom-sized grille opening. Note actuator linkage leading to cockpit.
Step 2...
Monitor coolant temperature while under way. At desired temperature, manipulate actuator.
Step 3...
Step 4 ...
(simulation)
Step 5...
Et voila!
====
Notes:
1) Best suited to convertible or sunroof-equipped vehicles.
2) The first time I pulled the rip cord, I was going about 50 km/h (30 mph).  Too fast! It flew over the cockpit and almost snapped the actuator linkage! Next time I tried around 15 km/h. Still too fast!
3) You don't want to be too concerned about the finish on the aft end of your vehicle -- the grille block will bounce & flap around back there before you get it reeled in.
Despite the silliness, it works. Speeds warm-up time, and improves aero. It was used on the last part of my recent record tank:
53 MPG tank in 1990 Mazda Miata: personal best (4.5 L/100 km)
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09-27-2018, 09:38 PM
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#2 (permalink)
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(:
Join Date: Jan 2008
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Hook the actuator linkage to the wipers for total, semi-automatic regulation.
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09-27-2018, 11:48 PM
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#3 (permalink)
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Batman Junior
Join Date: Nov 2007
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Hook it to the what?
Those are only on if it's going to rain. :P
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09-28-2018, 11:52 AM
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#4 (permalink)
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ScanGauge <3
Join Date: Dec 2016
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That's cool. Good reminder that a complicated two-way system as envisioned by a lot of tinkerers isn't really necessary. I should do something like this in my Outback. 
__________________
Best tank (so far): 32 MPG
Last edited by ThermionicScott; 09-28-2018 at 12:00 PM..
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09-28-2018, 12:41 PM
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#5 (permalink)
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Master EcoModder
Join Date: Feb 2018
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You got me thinking now
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2013 Toyota Prius C 2 (my car)
2015 Mazda 3 iTouring Hatchback w/ Tech Package (wife's car)
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09-28-2018, 01:35 PM
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#6 (permalink)
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Batman Junior
Join Date: Nov 2007
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You could fine-tune/complicate this idea with a series of smaller blocks and linkages!
I used it again today. This fuel hog needs all the help it can get!
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09-28-2018, 02:40 PM
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#7 (permalink)
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Master EcoModder
Join Date: Jul 2010
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Redneck factor is a tad too high 
Why not make the coroplast a bit bigger, cut a narrow vertical slot in it on either side, and use properly positioned big headed screws to keep the coroplast on the bumper .
__________________
Strayed to the Dark Diesel Side
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09-28-2018, 02:46 PM
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#8 (permalink)
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Batman Junior
Join Date: Nov 2007
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But then it's a 20-minute DIY!
TOO MUCH! |
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09-28-2018, 04:48 PM
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#9 (permalink)
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マット
Join Date: Nov 2015
Location: Indiana
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Why don't you put a stud in the air dam then hook light spring to it and the flap, then you can pull the string and tie it off on a cleat?
__________________
1973 Fiat 124 Special
1975 Honda Civic CVCC 4spd
1981 Kawasaki KZ750E
1981 Kawasaki KZ650 CSR
1983 Kawasaki KZ1100-A3
1986 Nissan 300zx Turbo 5 spd
1995 Chevy Astro RWD (current project)
1995 Mercury Tracer
2017 Kawasaki VersysX 300
2022 Corolla Hatchback 6MT
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6s...LulDUQ8HMj5VKA
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09-28-2018, 09:35 PM
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#10 (permalink)
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Master EcoModder
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What a great idea...
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