Re: Air beyond the Grill

[mike tipton <mtipton@netten.net>]

Audidude raises a good point about "airflow" through the grill.
Kinda what I was geting at in my post, on grills.

I know theres several engineers on an automotive manufacturers staff,
that all they do is study the air flow through the grill.  Of course 
there's a fancy name for this type of science, I just can't remember
it right now.(SAE papers)

Anyhow, these engineers relate this airflow to a specific number or 
figure, for each specific model vehicle.  This plays an important part
in radiator size and coolant system layout.

Just look at the "open frontal area" on a works Rally Ur-q, specifically
designed to allow more air to get to the engine.  Also the "Sport Q"
has a special hood with scoops.

It wouldnt be if there wasnt a need!  So with these special purpose
vehicles, Audi's "engineers of air" deemed it nessary. 

After all, we do know that Audi's tend to run on the warm side.
This is done to keep the "heat" in the combustion process and reduce
emissions.  No auto manufacturer today builds an engine, for public
sale, in mass numbers, strictly for performance.  They are mandated by 
laws to meet emission compliance. This one aspect is the main force
behind engine design today. That and money!

Whilst I lived in Tucson & Yuma AZ, I always felt my Audi ran a bit on 
the hot side. Especially with the ac on, in city traffic. Seems the 
electric rad fan was constantly on! (No bad high press switch)One good
thing though, nothing ever rusted!!EVER!

Climate plays an important part in the life of a vehicle. High humidity
seems to reek havic on electrical components, while high heat(AZ) likes
to attack the rubber and plastic pieces.

Reduced airflow through the grill?  Its bound to have an effect on 
something, depending on climate, depending on vehicle.
 
Longevity would be the key to all this, or one of those "Airflow 
Engineers"


                                    M