Intercooler efficiency question

[frapjap]

I know it isn't an Infiniti or Nissan, but there are some very well versed people on this board who might be able to help me out with the concept applied here.

Take a look at these:







- What problems do you foresee with the placement of this front mount?- How would it stack up to current designs in factory cars such as a Side, Top, or V-mount set up?- Is airflow a major issue? Will it do its job decently?

There is a ton of room IN the front bumper cover itself, but as you can see, the bumper cover isn't exactly air flow friendly. Suggestions, concerns, criticism, etc wanted.

[PapaSmurf2k3]

I'd say its better than top mount, but the actual size of it should be bigger, and it shouldn't be fastened with coat hanger wire. The airflow down there is probably pretty turbulent, so I'd be interested in seeing how efficient the setup is.

You could always rig up a fan setup if you have to.

[carmo]

I wonder if you use a fan and then tape little bits of yarn to the intercooler top and bottom side and maybe get like a wind tunnel effect to see the airflow characteristics. Maybe try mounting a camera in the empty space in the fascia, with the little bits of yarn still attached, and road test the car. Then try to get a shot of the bottom side of the intercooler on the road test. Just an idea.....

[PapaSmurf2k3]

That sounds like some serious James Bond type **** right there.

[Murdered_T]

Yea I would mount a trans cooler fan to the reverse side, Questions.1. Is there any panel protecting it from the ground?2. How far from the ground is it?3. Can you cut the bumper to make a direct airflow channel to the intercooler?4. Can you mount the intercooler a little more angled to increase the effect?

Also, is there a better way to mount? Like top mount?

[carmo]

Hahaha! Precisely! Shaken not stirred. I wonder if a company makes a body kit for the car that has an opening in the front. Top mount sound cool too.

[PapaSmurf2k3]

Top mount intercoolers suck. In case you forgot... heat rises. There is also usually little to no room behind the intercooler in a top mount setup. So, not only are you attempting to cool the charge with hot air, but you are using less air to do it.