My version of the LP mod...

[peterg22000]

with my Roto-Fab taking air from farther down then the stock box, I was trying to think of ways to get more air into that area, but I wasn't keen on cuting a hole in my Lower Panel.. well it turned out that the blocked area where the honeycomb is on the lower grill, is open behind there...

So I pulled the grill and did some modding, now my "lower Panel" mod is kinda Ram air...

Stock
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT002.jpg
Half out, This is a bitch for those of us with front plates... but it is possible
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT005.jpg
Off
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT006.jpg
Back side
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT009-1.jpg
Cutting, I used my band saw.. it JUST fit.. another half inch and it would have been a lot easier.
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT011-1.jpg
Done after some sanding to clean it all up
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT016-1.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT017-1.jpg
On to the car.. the opening.
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT018-1.jpg
A little "fix" to make things look right..
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT019-1.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT020-1.jpg
DONE!!!
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT022-1.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a394/peterg22000/G8/G8GT024-1.jpg

This was a 30min mod at most.. 15 if you have the same tools and aren't as picky as I am.

removal video..
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab65/peterg8/Paintwork/th_0728091603.jpg (http://s850.photobucket.com/albums/ab65/peterg8/Paintwork/?action=view&current=0728091603.mp4)

[jbradsh1]

with my Roto-Fab taking air from farther down then the stock box, I was trying to think of ways to get more air into that area, but I wasin't keen on cuting a hold in my Lpwer Panel.. well it turned out that the area where the honeycomb is on the lower grill, is open behind there...

So I pulled the grill and did some modding, now my "lower Panel" mod is kinda Ram air ... Stock

This was a 30min mod at most.. 15 if you have the same tools and aren't as picky as I am.

Personally, I think your mod is brilliant. Think there is any liability if it rains heavily, as the stock airbox has it's pick up down low near that area which is maybe why the factory grill is blocked off, but I'm not sure.

[jbradsh1]

Any tips on how to get the grill out without damaging it, or the paint?

[confused2much]

Think there is any liability if it rains heavily?

I wonder about this too. But other than that, I think it is a great mod. I might do this myself. It really turned out great!

[jbradsh1]

Yea, I'm just a bit worried about breaking the clips holding the lower panel on. Anyone with a suggestion, cause I'm ready to do this mod!

I tried a small flat head screwdriver with a paper towel wrapped around the end but I just didn't feel comfortable trying to pry the thing out without first getting some feedback from someone who's already done it.

[GeoffA]

That's a new GRRRR8 mod.

I'm surprised no one has done this yet, these lowere grills are blocked off on a lot of newer cars and can benifit from being open.

[jbradsh1]

I looked it over and opening up the lower grill pumps fresh air directly into the RF pick up area.

[sdown]

That's smart. It's on my to-do list now. Especially like the Canadian Tire paint can in the post!

[peterg22000]

Yea, I'm just a bit worried about breaking the clips holding the lower panel on. Anyone with a suggestion, cause I'm ready to do this mod!

I tried a small flat head screwdriver with a paper towel wrapped around the end but I just didn't feel comfortable trying to pry the thing out without first getting some feedback from someone who's already done it.

just put your fingers through the opening in the honeycomb, feel for where the clip it and PULL on the outter rim of the grill near the clip (not the honeycomb itself) you can even pull and grip the end with the fog light till you get your fingers under it to pull it out (At least I could with my skinny fingers)


there are NO TOOL REQUIRED for removing the grill.. only for cutting the grill.

[rlrayl11]

I can't get my grill to budge at all. Are you supposed to pull or push the clip while pulling on the grill at all?

[peterg22000]

you can pull the clip upward (the bottom clip) at you pull out, or downward for the top clip, that may help. but you will find that your just not pulling hard enough.. it really does just take a LOT of force to get it to pop out..
I hope for your sake you don't have a front plate, because if you think it hard to pull the open access clips, you will HATE trying to get the one behind the plate...

[jbradsh1]

you can pull the clip upward (the bottom clip) at you pull out, or downward for the top clip, that may help. but you will find that your just not pulling hard enough.. it really does just take a LOT of force to get it to pop out..
I hope for your sake you don't have a front plate, because if you think it hard to pull the open access clips, you will HATE trying to get the one behind the plate...

Just finished the peterg22000 mod! Mine was easy cause I didn't have the front license plate. I did it just the way you outlined and it was actually very easy to do. Now a full blast of fresh air is coming right up into the exact area where the RF pick up is. Awesome! Sounds a little louder under full throttle too.

[rlrayl11]

Yea I don't have a front plate, but I think I'm just afraid of cracking it. But if no one has had that problem then I'll just give another go at it and use a little more force.

[jbradsh1]

Yea I don't have a front plate, but I think I'm just afraid of cracking it. But if no one has had that problem then I'll just give another go at it and use a little more force.

Maybe this will help. Go to the left end of the grill. Put a finger through the second row of egg shaped openings (down from the top row) near the end of the whole piece and curl your finger back up till you feel the clip, it's right near the very upper left end of the whole grill. Pull some downward on the clip with your finger using light pressure and pull the grill out in just that one place only. You'll feel it loosen up and pull free. Do the same now on the bottom clip so now you have the left end of the entire grill free. Keep working your way back towards the right end (fog lamps side) of the grill until you have pulled the whole grill out. It's actually pretty easy once you get the first clip loose and then downhill from there.

The grill itself and the plastic clips are very pliable and flexible, not rigid so you shouldn't have any worries about breaking off a clip. Just take your time and once you get the first clip free you'll understand how easy it is.

[BigV8]

This is great mod for those that don't want to purchase the vararam after already having a cold air intake. Great job.

[jbradsh1]

This is great mod for those that don't want to purchase the vararam after already having a cold air intake. Great job.

Yes, thanks to Peter the Great, we have a very workable mod that helps out the RF cars. I just can't believe no one else figured this out before now, me included.

[rlrayl11]

Thanks jbradsh1, that helped me out and I got the piece off. What did you use to remove the blocked of plastic part? I don't have a band saw handy like peterg22000 lol.

[JerzeyGT]

Why didnt the cars just come this way.... Not only is it a great mod, but it looks nicer and the grille is easier to clean.... I dont have a RF but I think im doin this mod on both sides just for the look off the grille..... Nice find

[Naptown99]

Is there anything that may be damaged by water behind the grill that was previously protected? like something important that could be corroded?

[Bhuge]

I just completed this also. Very simple to do. JBradsh1 you said you have the roto-fab, did you do the original lower panel mod as well?

[rlrayl11]

What did you use to remove or cut the plastic after you removed the lower piece?

[jbradsh1]

What did you use to remove or cut the plastic after you removed the lower piece?

I used a very small drywall saw.

[jbradsh1]

I just completed this also. Very simple to do. JBradsh1 you said you have the roto-fab, did you do the original lower panel mod as well?

No, I didn't want to butcher the paneling or risk driving through large standing water and have it shower up into the intake. I'm sure some of the more experienced guys at modding here have done a really good job at this, I just didn't trust myself enough to do it.

[GTX]

Thank god someone found a better way of doing this. I was just going to drill out each hole. Pretty basic but it would have been time consuming to make it look good. I guess if I would have taken the initiative to remove the grill, I could have seen there was an easier way to do this. Going home after work to get this done. Good Job Peter. Saves me time and a headache.

[Pandersonjr]

what if i just punched a few big holes through the honeycomb to let it breathe a litte?

[peterg22000]

what if i just punched a few big holes through the honeycomb to let it breathe a litte?

sure, you can do that, but it woud mean less air(not a lot less though) and it wouldn't look nearly as good..

[fastg8mi]

any one no this part number...................damn it :(

[VENOM]

i tugged on the front piece yesterday and the whole bumper was flexing so I stopped. Any easy way to remove that bottom plastic grille besides pulling?

[peterg22000]

any one no this part number...................damn it :(

don't know it... but I gotta ask, what did you do?

[peterg22000]

i tugged on the front piece yesterday and the whole bumper was flexing so I stopped. Any easy way to remove that bottom plastic grille besides pulling?



nope, this is the easyest way. only other way is to remove the cover itself and do the samething from the back side.

[BigRob]

any one no this part number...................damn it :(

awww man, that wasnt the post i wanted to see!

[PaFromFL]

i tugged on the front piece yesterday and the whole bumper was flexing so I stopped. Any easy way to remove that bottom plastic grille besides pulling?
The jpg below shows the tabs on the back the lower grille that hold it in place. If your fingers are long enough, you can insert them through the honeycomb and release most of the tabs to reduce the removal force. The tabs are rather springy, so I pop them loose one-at-a-time. When reinserting the grille, I use a flashlight and fingers to verify that all the tabs pop back into place.

[fastg8mi]

halfway through pulling it off, it cracked on the bottom.

[rlrayl11]

I don't know the part number but they are listed on GM parts direct for $36 and some change.

I thought about ordering another one just in case but everything worked out perfect.

[VENOM]

Can I PLEASE mail these to someone who has cut the back off? I just tried doing it myself with a small saw and it was not working out well. I dont have the proper equipment and I would be willing to pay shipping both ways and any other money you would want to get this thing functional.

Just PM me

[Tate]

I did this about two weeks ago using a dremmel to start all the way around then a little hand saw the rest of the way. Man not fun with just a hand saw, but I was victorious in the end took about 35 minutes all said and done. I currently have my HSRK sensor down there zip tied to the line coming out of the radiator so the sensor is in the path of the incoming air.
Tate

[sgt_rock]

I used a uni-bit and drilled them out, it's very hard to detect. I would have liked to use the bandsaw technique but I don't have access to one.

Only trouble was wiggling the grill out as I have a front license plate. The dealer pop-riveted it on - I think is how it comes from GM. Just take your time and it should come out without any violence.

This is a nice little boost in throttle response - I was a bit surprised I could notice it at all.

Best Regards,
Eric

[peterg22000]

Can I PLEASE mail these to someone who has cut the back off? I just tried doing it myself with a small saw and it was not working out well. I dont have the proper equipment and I would be willing to pay shipping both ways and any other money you would want to get this thing functional.

Just PM me


Check your PM's ;)

[chuckwi11]

Any advantage/disadvantage with this mod for Vararam guys? I'm thinking more airflow to the engine helps cool things down even if it doesn't directly feed my VR CAI, but I live in Florida where daily rainstorms are common... wouldn't want to put more water under the hood... thoughts?

[Posidon42]

Why is everyone so concerned with getting water in the intake? Hardcore turbo guys inject water into the intake ON PURPOSE for the intake charge cooling and additional timing benefits. Not sure how this would affect an N/A engine, but if you aren't putting the snorkel on the outside of the bodywork, I doubt much would happen to it. Just my $0.02.

This mod is now on my list to do once I get an intake.

[WARLOCK]

hmmm. i just dont know.. I have another intake idea cooking. I will have to remove this thing myself and have a look at this...

[morpheousssv]

Done the same mod in aus on the commodore VEssv - cut out the grill in the driving light area. Once you get the speed up it just wants to keep making power/speed until you get off it. TOP mod at no c:woohoo:ost

[roSSco]

I did this mod in about 45 minutes. I used a hacksaw to make the cut. It was a pain!

[vinci]

Why is everyone so concerned with getting water in the intake? Hardcore turbo guys inject water into the intake ON PURPOSE for the intake charge cooling and additional timing benefits. Not sure how this would affect an N/A engine, but if you aren't putting the snorkel on the outside of the bodywork, I doubt much would happen to it. Just my $0.02.

This mod is now on my list to do once I get an intake.

The reason they are worried is a problem called hydrolock :lock:. Some BMW models a few years back had the problem, M5's as I recall, first time you went thru standing water, like 3" or so, with any speed, you had to have a complete new engine. BMW did not want to warranty them at first, I don't know how it finally turned out.

Some water (and a squirt of methanol or even isopropyl with it) in a controlled fashion is a wonderful thing, even with a high compression NA engine that is prone to knock - ask the guy who used to run a 11.5:1 SB Chevy back in the 80's :secret:. Too much, and :poof: Never learned the second lesson myself, thankfully!

[wreckwriter]

I had no problem getting the tabs loose on the grill portion but after that it still seems to be stuck on around the light "cup". How do you get that part off?

[wreckwriter]

Never mind, I got it. This is a great mod but I advise anyone doing it to find a friend with a bandsaw. This was a bitch with a drywall saw and a Dremel!

[G8Smitty]

I had no problems with the instructions in this thread. I did this mod and love it (band saw). I have the NEP side mount, so it will work well for me. THANKS!

Wreck, mine was stuck on the light cup as well, but a little light prying and it came loose.

[shane]

i just used a rather large drill bit today and just drilled them all...

[stryker g8gt]

I did this on Wednesday......used a band saw..... then cleaned it up some and flat black paint. took all of twenty-five minutes from take off to re-mount.

between this and changing the head light fluid, what a difference !!!! WOW!!!

[Dunlin1]

I think the piece you guys are cutting is there to keep something from hitting the brake lines, also excess moisture or road salt will cause extra corrosion in the area.

[peterg22000]

I think the piece you guys are cutting is there to keep something from hitting the brake lines, also excess moisture or road salt will cause extra corrosion in the area.

I don't feel there is a clear enough path from the opening to break lines and I doubt this will allow a signifigant amount more salt then normal to worry

[G8JOE]

What do you think- look at the pic with the panel off, see how it is partitioned off inside. Instead of cutting the holes off the panel, how about removing the partition, then air in the high pressure area could just move over into the intake area without defacing or breaking the front panel, and would still look stock, and still have the holes covered to protect that brake line and the horn?

[alex94z]

What do you think- look at the pic with the panel off, see how it is partitioned off inside. Instead of cutting the holes off the panel, how about removing the partition, then air in the high pressure area could just move over into the intake area without defacing or breaking the front panel, and would still look stock, and still have the holes covered to protect that brake line and the horn?


That sounds like a good idea. Less of a ram air effect, but still cooler air getting in.

[peterg22000]

I wouldn't do that, that deflects air to your rad, you don't want to lessen the air going to that.

[G8JOE]

No less air to the radiator, not cutting the deflecting airdam underneath, just that 5 inch piece of plastic separating the radiator area from the intake area.After tonight's major rain in our area and in lieu of the fact our roads suck, I decided to do the snorkel mod, but not the lower panel mod. I will keep that intact and will cut away the divider off the lower grill that separates the radiator area from the intake side behind the grill part that does not have holes(behind the foglight area) essentially extending the high pressure area into the intake snorkel pick up area. Does that make sense?

[G8JOE]

Ok Today I did it, very significant difference. Pulls much harder in the midrange, bit more nice intake sound. I also pulled the 1 inch piece of insulation that blocked over have of the opening against the front bumper. Did not run right until I took off the neg battery cable.
Biggest difference is now it will shift at 6000rpm where I only got 5700-5800 rpm most before, and next would be the 45 to 90 mph kick in the a$$ it gets! Got to be the best free mods yet.

[bobyoung]

I did mine this afternoon, I notice a difference also, same as the others, louder and quicker. I got it out with a screwdriver with electrical tape wrapped around the end, couldn't get it out with my fingers. I made some tiny marks but nothing anyone will ever notice. I cut the back off with a coping saw, it was not a lot of fun but it only took about 15 minutes. The hardest part was getting all the little divots that the saw left behind after I cut it. This should help the HRSK also. Now e need a name for it, maybe the peterg22000 mod so people can find it?

[SRG963]

I've updated the sticky Free Mods thread and named this the Front Panel Mod.

If anyone objects, please let me know :)

[bobyoung]

I had a chance to really test it tonight, I just went out cruising on the highway, I notice I need much less gas to just cruise, it almost feels like drafting a truck it's such a pronounced difference, it much faster up to a little over 100 which is the fastest I went tonight. This is really a GRRRR8 mod.

[swatt444]

Instead of sawing the backing off, could you use a rough grit grinder and then a finer grit for smoothing?

[kje141]

This is interesting and I've read through the whole thread and saw the concerns but I cannot get past the water/dirt/other crap issue. If taking it off makes such a difference then we are taking a lot more air in there. But with that air is bugs, water, salt and who else knows what else. The question has been posed before, but I figure give it some more time before asking again to see if any issues have come up. So I guess my only question is whether or not anyone has any adverse side effects that they have seen yet with this mod. Thanks fellas.

[peterg22000]

I tried that for the other side, while it does work, it takes forever! like 3-4times longer.

[Tommy G]

I have been running this mod on mine for 6 or 8 months now. I used a 3/4 inch spade bit to drill holes in as many hex spaces as it would fit in. It definitely lowers AIT on my Volant CAI. Zero issues picking up road debris/water/salt spray. The Volant uses a paper filter so it would show up right away if it was wet.

I tested it on the day I did it and was getting 10 degrees over ambient temps on the highway. On a hot day with a/c on in the city, 20-25 degrees over ambient. This is with the stock MAF, no HSRK, which is next.

[bobyoung]

I have noticed another benefit, besides the car being faster and more responsive I am getting about 2mpg better mileage. Has anyone else experienced this?

[G8JOE]

I only did the partition next to the honeycomb that people drill or cut off. I also did the snorkel horn mod also. I wanted the honeycomb holes closed for winter weather protection. I drove 45 minutes in a flooded road rain storm literally blasting walls of water 5 ft high at times and suffered no ill effects. Again I did only the snorkel and partition mods. I checked the next day and the filter was dry, though underneath was soaked. So I think I am all good for the snow packing up and ice etc. I like the performance and cannot see the holes thing improving it immensely. I am still testing MPG, but so far I think there is a justification for a mpg increase. Will post back when through testing.

[Ktlplxm]

I have noticed another benefit, besides the car being faster and more responsive I am getting about 2mpg better mileage. Has anyone else experienced this?

I did initially with my first cold air and panel mod. It is mainly because until the car learns to account for the extra flow at all conditions, it is running leaner than usual. No worries though, its harmless

[svtcobra]

Going to be doing this mod very shortly

[scottsmach03]

I have been running this mod on mine for 6 or 8 months now. I used a 3/4 inch spade bit to drill holes in as many hex spaces as it would fit in. It definitely lowers AIT on my Volant CAI. Zero issues picking up road debris/water/salt spray. The Volant uses a paper filter so it would show up right away if it was wet.

I tested it on the day I did it and was getting 10 degrees over ambient temps on the highway. On a hot day with a/c on in the city, 20-25 degrees over ambient. This is with the stock MAF, no HSRK, which is next.



I did the same thing except a 3/4 drill bit. I couldnt fit my fingers in the holes to pull on the tabs. The top tab behind my license plate is what killed it. It was a no go. Drilling the holes dosnt look as clean and OEM as the saw, but it gets the job done and isnt real noticable.

[schwartz]

It sounds like a great idea cause thats where my CAI filter sits.But whats that hose there,A/C hose?Makes me wonder about debris flying in there.

[scottsmach03]

I wouldnt worry with debris. Nothing large enough to do damage would get through. If a pebble does happen to make it through; whats it going to hit? The only thing that sits behind it is some a/c lines. People run ram air setups on their cars all the time, this is no different. This is just a easy way to let cool air into the motor.

[DVDDave]

i am glad i stumbled on to this thread...mine came right off...i had the car on a lift about four feet high and just pulled...i had to use a hack say and a razor blade to clean up, took about 20 minutes.....but i do feel a boost....

Shawn, do you think this will effect the Rotfab CAI Tune in any way ????

[bobyoung]

I have a Rotofab CAI with the tune down below and it just continues to run better and better, it's a great mod. Quarter throttle and I'm screeching 2nd gear. The increase in power is definitely noticeable in mine.

[mark]

Those of you that have left the panel on and just drilled out the holes--is there enough clearance to do so safely without hitting anything? It appears as though there would be based on the pics in this thread, but I want to be sure. I've tried to pull mine off but haven't had any success. I don't want to force it and break anything, and I have a front plate, so even if I get it going I don't want to have to fight with that.

I may attack it tomorrow with a large drill bit and my dremel now that my last project is complete(painted radiator cover, engine cover, fuse box cover, and volant intake lid--pics to follow tomorrow when it's light out).

[caretaker]

I drilled the openings out with a 1/2" drill while on the car.
There is enough room behind the panel to do it safely.
Just be ready to pull back when you go through.

[kje141]

Ended up taking off my front license plate bracket which allowed mine to come off very easily. One of my clips above the fog light got hung up and having the ability to bring the left side out first helped me out a lot. Unfortunately however I used a dremel which was a pain in the ass to cut the back, but eventually got it done, just very messy.

[scottsmach03]

Those of you that have left the panel on and just drilled out the holes--is there enough clearance to do so safely without hitting anything? It appears as though there would be based on the pics in this thread, but I want to be sure. I've tried to pull mine off but haven't had any success. I don't want to force it and break anything, and I have a front plate, so even if I get it going I don't want to have to fight with that.

I may attack it tomorrow with a large drill bit and my dremel now that my last project is complete(painted radiator cover, engine cover, fuse box cover, and volant intake lid--pics to follow tomorrow when it's light out).



Use a small drill as a pilot bit first then use a bigger drill bit like a 1/2, or 5/8

[scottsmach03]

Ended up taking off my front license plate bracket which allowed mine to come off very easily. One of my clips above the fog light got hung up and having the ability to bring the left side out first helped me out a lot. Unfortunately however I used a dremel which was a pain in the ass to cut the back, but eventually got it done, just very messy.



How did you get your license plate bracket off? I looked at mine and it looked like it was riveted on.

[mark]

Got this done earlier tonight. Looking back, I should have just drilled big holes in the center and left it at that. I drilled, then I wasn't satisfied with the drill holes, so I attempted to take the panel off. After fighting for a while I got it partially detached, except for behind my front plate bracket. I used my dremel to grind out bigger openings, which basically melted the plastic instead of grinding. It was messy. Out of all my dremel bits there wasn't one that was very good for this job. I cleaned off the back the best I could and re-attached it. The dremel left some scuff marks in some of the honeycombs, which I touched up with some black paint. Luckily they aren't noticeable from more than a few inches away.

Front plate bracket was basically riveted on, so removing that wasn't an option. Haven't driven it more than a few blocks yet, so we'll see tomorrow if it feels much different. Should definitely get some cooler air into the intake though.

This would have gone much better had I gotten the panel off. The parts I could access came off quite easily with the help of a flathead screwdriver covered in painters tape. The foglight section was tricky.

[peterg22000]

I really thought I added this vid...

No tools are required to remove the Panel (unless you're removing the plate bracket)
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab65/peterg8/Paintwork/th_0728091603.jpg (http://s850.photobucket.com/albums/ab65/peterg8/Paintwork/?action=view&current=0728091603.mp4)

[BigRed585Lbs]

Here's Mine. Works fine. And it's FREE!

http://i801.photobucket.com/albums/yy294/BigRed585Lbs/100_0021.jpg

[Project Whiplash]

I finally got around to doing this last week when i installed my custom FWI. I was able to remove the grill with out taken the plate bracket off..

[Dunlin1]

I read these posts and was going to do this, After looking at it, It seems the GXP comes stock like this, whith all holes open ? :)

[kje141]

Iiiiiiiiiinteresting

EDIT: wait a minute, the GXP fascia is different than the GT. the area where this done on the GT isn't there on the GXP, you have painted material there immediately to the left of the foglight. This mod might not be possible for the GXP?

[edmanet]

I'll try to get pics on my version up. I extended the GR8888 block off panel with a L shaped piece of aluminum to cover the brake lines.

[Imalabil]

I've been thinking that, and my Volant has a hole in the bottom of the intake scoop that could be used to attach a duct.
Bill

[Posidon42]

lovin the scientific strings ;)

[Posidon42]

I had hoped to play with some of this stuff this weekend, but stupid paypal had an old address on file as my 'home' and I didn't notice. So my intake parts were delivered somewhere back in California when I am in Nebraska. Good thing we still have friends in the area... :(

[jspayne66]

I am not trying to beat a dead horse, but has anyone that has done this mod noticed any water infiltration into the CAI or any other problems or concerns?

[Mike P]

I am not trying to beat a dead horse, but has anyone that has done this mod noticed any water infiltration into the CAI or any other problems or concerns?


Good question, as I haven't done this GRRRR8 mod yet, but wondering if anyone has had any water problems or anything.

I'm assuming not.......

Have the regulars done this Charlie, George, Devilish34, Roy, ect......?


If it helps & there are no problems, I am doing this tomorrow, as I have a free day to go burn some gas and stuff! :)


...

[peterg22000]

I've driven in every condition you can think of since doing it (rain, snow, slush, dust, ect...) and I've had NO issues. and since mine is the oldest one done on the forum, I think its a good messure for success :first:

[Mike P]

I've driven in every condition you can think of since doing it (rain, snow, slush, dust, ect...) and I've had NO issues. and since mine is the oldest one done on the forum, I think its a good messure for success :first:


perg22000 thank you for replying back. I wonder if I could do the cutting Plastic Cuttin' Bad @ss George Style, with a fresh blade & a utility knife?


...

[Panzer Leader]

I wondered about a water problem also. Not only from rain being blown in but if you happen to hit some deep standing water.

[AVIDMOTION]

I have had it done since the original poster showed us how to do it. No problems at all. Here in NJ we got over 75 inches of snow this yr, some blowing drifting snow and I have no problems, in the Fall it was all rain and I drove to Florida in full sideways gale wind and rain and no problems. I even checked after crawling through 14 inch high standing water which I thought would have scooped up water but none, I even pulled over to check the box and it was dry, matter of fact there was not any moisture withing 12 inches of the box at all

[jspayne66]

To AvidMotion,

did you notice any gains by performing this mod?

[texn884]

Any Updates to this thread?

I like the simple idea to use a drill bit to open the holes to let more air in.

[peterg22000]

what updates are you looking for?

[texn884]

Will drilling out the part of the grill work?

I like your Mod and the paint but I get so many paint chips to begin with I would be adding more paint surface to be blasted by crap on the road here in Texas.

You do some real nice work for sure.

Curtis

[peterg22000]

drilling would work to, just not look as good, and we got shit roads here to and winter... mine have lasted a year and 8,000+ miles in all weather/road surface conditions..

[texn884]

I think this weekend when I was her I will see if I can take the grill off. I really like this DIY Mod.

[deiz29]

has anyone with the e&g grill done this? im sure it will help my air flow. i havent gotten an intake yet but i was leaning on getting the volant...thanks

[66cat389]

I would just like to chime in on this to say that this was one of my first mods, and I have driven through snow and pouring rain with no problem at all. I did put a hydrophobic sock over the CAI filter, but I'm paranoid like that.

[texn884]

I drilled holes and could tell that there is more air going to the Roto-Fab. I used 1/2" bit and might go up to the 3/4" bit to get a bit more air to my CAI. Easy and cost nothing to do.:secret:

[The Yeti]

So i just did this mod and it is indeed a pain trying to get the grill out if you have a front plate. I used a funky hand saw for cutting pvc piping and while it took a while it got the job done. I then just used a piece of sand paper to remove any shavings. I also sprayed black Plastidip on the lines in there to hide them and also protect them from the elements as plastidip is heat and weather resistant.

Impressions: Well it is definitely louder now where my rotofab is. I had the wife rev the gas while I had the grill off and with my hand just behind the fog light I could feel the whoosh of air from the intake everytime she punched it so I can only imagine how much more cold air this bad boy is going to pull in while moving. At one point when I punched it on the street the car reved and then stalled for a second. Just like my intake used to make my car behave before I had a tune. Like there was too much airflow. In another instance I smashed on it while getting on the freeway and my car started bouncing the rev limiter from 1st to 2nd while I was in Drive. Weird. Maybe my car is getting used to all this new found airflow.

I think I'm going to fabricate some kind of ducting or maybe extend the snorkle to the opening in the grill now to really force feed the air. Great Mod.

[schwartz]

I just completed this MOD.The easiest way to do this is to remove the bumper,it's very easy to do.Once the bumper is off the removal of the grill is quite simple.I just used a hacksaw,cut it off in minutes.The bumper was back on in no time.Great simple MOD,thanks for this.

[texn884]

Your engine will thank you for giving it more AIR.

[MIEngineer]

If you guys are drilling from the front, use a spring loaded punch to locate the drill bit. This way the bit wont shift and damage any of the grill honeycomb pieces.

Looks interesting. As noted, the A/C line there probably isn't too happy...but really, if something is going to break through that plastic...well, that line won't be too pleased anyway.

[tchr49]

Instead of sawing the backing off, could you use a rough grit grinder and then a finer grit for smoothing?

I did this mod using my 4 inch grinder and a 3-4mm cutoff wheel, working at appropriate speed. Just worked from the inside of the grille toward the fog light opening, using the edge of the wheel to horizontally peel off the surface. Only went down to a depth that removed enough material so that the honeycomb showed. Lightly sanded it with sandpaper. Very little cleanup. Hit the back with black magic marker, and done. So easy, I did both sides so they would match.

[StBlGT]

anyone cut the panel on the passenger side, also? to even up the look. is anything behind that side of the panel when cutting that side? looking to do this mod very soon.

[peterg22000]

anyone cut the panel on the passenger side, also? to even up the look. is anything behind that side of the panel when cutting that side? looking to do this mod very soon.

Yes, many have. There's nothing back there to worry about.

[StBlGT]

^^^ thanks for the quick response! good to know.

[DavesG8GT]

This is the first time I've seen this thread. I went out and did mine. So easy!!

[Boss Hogg]

anyone cut the panel on the passenger side, also? to even up the look. is anything behind that side of the panel when cutting that side? looking to do this mod very soon.

Here! Similar to the GT rear fascia, I hated the trapped dirt that would get stuck in the panel. So I chopped both sides for easy cleaning.

[MeanGreenZ71]

Just saw this thread. Will this be beneficial if I still have the stock air box? Anyone that has had this mod for a while had any issues?

[peterg22000]

Just saw this thread. Will this be beneficial if I still have the stock air box? Anyone that has had this mod for a while had any issues?

No, there will be no benefit if you still have the stock air box. (except MAYBE break cooling?) that said I've yeat to hear a single issue cropping up from this mod.

[fixem2]

Any chance to refresh the pics in the first post? Red x's

[BLKG8]

I just looked and pics still there ..

[peterg22000]

all pics still working just fine, problem is on your end.

[fixem2]

They are now. Did not see them earlier, but appreciate them now even more!

[cynic783]

Did this mod yesterday.

After removing panel
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/05/e5aqu4um.jpg

The modified panel.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/05/renarevy.jpg

Reused the sawed off plastic to protect lines behind opening.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/05/a9e4y7ag.jpg

I logged a few 25-95 runs and I didnt see a diff in maf freq but I did see slightly lower IAT and slightly faster runs, like 9.1 vs 9.15 secs.

[jonnynadeau]

Did this mod yesterday.

After removing panel
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/05/e5aqu4um.jpg

The modified panel.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/05/renarevy.jpg

Reused the sawed off plastic to protect lines behind opening.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/05/a9e4y7ag.jpg

I logged a few 25-95 runs and I didnt see a diff in maf freq but I did see slightly lower IAT and slightly faster runs, like 9.1 vs 9.15 secs.

IAT is where it's at. Nice idea on the cut off piece.
I did mine last October, no ill effects yet. No rust, just a little more dirt in the fender area, but nothing serious.


iPhone, Tapatalk, enough said!

[billtherealtor]

I just had this done as well I can tell a little better responce. We did cut the bottom of the Roto-Fab box to let more air in as well.

[Blk.drgn@hotmail.com]

17543

This is my take on the mod. (hopefully pic uploads) I used a dremel, and only removed the centre 9 holes - trying to make it look factory and leaving the outer hexes filled it. I de-bured it , and took extra time with a tranny pic trying to make it look perfect.

[GXPaycheck]

If you are worried about water you can drill some holes in the bottom of the lower panel below the intake. If any gets in it will drain right out. Also lets some extra air in. That's what I did on my GT. The block off panel I made was also long enough to cover the lines behind the grill.

[djerickd]

I made a grrr8 block off plate to go with my lower panel mod:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l40/djerickd/7A018CD7-1B3A-4729-A485-EFEC9C8962D8-4733-0000032E9143A76D.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l40/djerickd/BAE3D439-F6B7-4C21-8554-7C0E8480898D-4733-0000032E9A0AA301.jpg

[cynic783]

Very tidy!

[Mr.Angry.GTP]

Epic thread guys, and very helpful indeed... Here is my question though, and it seems this has not been addressed here yet... Obviously at this point it seems there are no ill effects with hydro lock for those using a rotofab and the like, but what about those using a true in the fender cai like a new era or opg? I'm buying an opg used this week from a guy locally at a grrrr8 price, and would like to get more air to it, but once again, living in the north east I'm concerned about snow and rain.

Cheers,
Gary

[schwartz]

I used a sock on my filter just in case.

[Mr.Angry.GTP]

^^^looks like ill do the same..

[GXPaycheck]

A friend gave me some fine steel mesh that I put over the inlet. Another option would be a filter cover like K&N sells.
Or a sock.

[HVYCHVY]

I attempted the mod today. I started the mod by drilling out the centers. Having limited tools and patience, it was a PITA squaring off the holes with dykes and a single razor blade. I buggered up some of the outer slots so I may buy another grille and try it with a grinder or something. The hardest part of getting it off was around the fog light. That took a while to get loose.

[TA427]

Awesome mod, cant believe I just saw this, now also an easy access to condensor, for my bolt in chiller adapter ! And also keep those very hot liquid high pressure A/C lines a little cooler

[gr8g8]

This mod definitely aids the rotofab. I verified with hptuners and picked up 2 KPA map. I was getting 98-100 KPA at 6000 rpm which is straight up ridiculous. I saw 102 KPA at 3000 rpm at WOT. Amazing mod for that intake.

[gr8g8]

Saw 101 KPA at 6000 rpm today. Awesome!

[VinnyV504]

Why would it not help with a Stock box? As the stock box Intake goes right Into this spot?

[JimmyJazz]

Why would it not help with a Stock box? As the stock box Intake goes right Into this spot?
It would help. But the stock air intake comes out just below the headlight but above the area that's cut out. It should increase the air available but wouldn't really "ram" the air into the mouth of the intake.