Outback aeromod advice? - Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum

Thalass · 10-29-2008, 09:33 AM

Hey folks. I've gotten to the point where I want to do some minor aeromods on my car. I don't want to permanently change anything, though.

Here's the front view, not as centred as I thought it was

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I was thinking of blocking the lower bumper opening, as all it does is collect sand in the bush and the radiator doesn't extend that low. I was thinking styrofoam with some kind of tape protecting it and holding it in (also to conceal it, I'd like to keep a stock look). The upper grille is needed, though, as it's coming into summer and it's going to be up towards 42°C in a month or so. Also the fog lights - A clear cover for those if I can get something. The wipers would be a good idea, too, but I'm not sure how to build something to cover them.

Here's the other thing I'd like to fiddle with. I don't want to remove the bars, but I think plugging those holes would help. I can get some clear tape that should cover it nicely, but perhaps some foam or something to strengthen it will help.

Here's another view of it.

Here's the view from underneath the front. The plastic bash plate doesn't protect the car very well from impacts, but probably helps aerodynamically. Probably not much, though.

So would these things be worth it? Is there anything else anyone can see? The mirrors do fold in, but I'd rather keep them out, unless I can have them deploy when I push a button or something

Daox · 10-29-2008, 10:59 AM

I'd suggest blocking the upper grill opening. It has more aero benefits. Blocking the bottom isn't going to do much for you except speed up warm up times.

2000mc · 11-01-2008, 08:46 PM

why not do the lower? i'd say do the lower, and an adjustable / easily removable upper. i think the hottest days are the best for making a grill block, once you've seen how far you can go in the most extreme conditions you can go ahead and make it permanent.

brucey · 11-01-2008, 09:05 PM

Mine looks like this in summer:

coolant never gets above 212F degrees

Recently I've taped the bottom half up too as its winter, now it doesent get above 204F

Piwoslaw · 11-02-2008, 05:27 AM

[Thalass], think about cutting the passenger side mirror and replacing it with internals.

whokilledthejams · 11-04-2008, 07:33 PM

If you can live with less ground clearance, I'd suggest struts and springs from a non-Outback Legacy (Liberty). It's a direct swap, and you can probably find them in a junkyard.

groar · 11-04-2008, 09:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Daox

I'd suggest blocking the upper grill opening. It has more aero benefits. Blocking the bottom isn't going to do much for you except speed up warm up times.

Something I'd like to be able to explain.
I imagine that if I have a good upper grill blocking, in a aero point of view, I should avoid having wipers in the air flow.

Denis, who can't wait his aero book to travel the Atlantic Ocean...

aspera · 11-04-2008, 10:26 PM

First, drop that sucka!

You are lucky enough to have the power of the entire Subaru aftermarket at your disposal. You can choose from a variety of springs, struts, or even coilovers.

Second, there should be aluminum skidplates available for your car. Most Subaru skidplates extend to the front jacking plate (under your steering rack). The engine cradle/subframe and exhaust manifold hang down in the breeze a bit. A skidplate will clean this up and insulate your oil pan a bit. Your car isn't going to overheat, but should run nice and warm just the way you want it for mileage.

Third, look on the Legacy forums to see if there are any factory parts to plug the holes when you remove your roof rack.

Next, look at your options for another bumper cover. There were several legacy models. IIRC, some Legacy models cam without fog lights. Some had a much lower front lip (built-in airdam). You're grille insert can also be snapped out and replaced with other models.

You can easily and cheaply space your hood if you don't mind the way it looks.

Other than that, you might want to check out the black plastic around the wheel wells. Both sides of the engine are blocked from wheel wells by plastic panels.