Grill Blocking/Air Intake...Work in Progress
 

Hard to see that the two slots on the passenger side are really a duct (grey for now) to get more air into the CRD. The three grill blocks on the drivers side is made out of some material I found behind my business. I might go ahead and block off the next two over to test..I should still get plenty from under the bumper. I am sure they would be better aero wise if they were on the outside of the grill but they look better like this...

Where does the duct go? I see that CRD is the model.

Anyway, it looks pretty good. Should help reduce heat loss to air blowing through the engine bay. Also should reduce warmup time.

The "duct" catches clean air and directs it up to the top of the hood...near the air inlet...I put a 2002 Air Box because it has a top load snorkel for cleaner air. The original duct took dirtier wet (if raining) air and the filters got wet and clogged very quickly.

https://www.gassavers.org/garage_imag...b11voynjbp.jpg

Went ahead and finished it off...going to replace two of the ones that are a bit off in the morning. I tell you, the engine comes up to temp quickly and holds the temps much longer when the engine has been shut off...should help mph a bit more.

Well with "Full Grill Block", MPG dropped significantly. Was getting better with 4 of 7 blocked. I think because I am in San Antonio, Tx...some grill block is OK but it is not cold enuff for a full grill block. The intercooler still needs a cool supply of air. Also the CRD runs cool...168 degrees...and if the ECM detects higher temps it makes changes that cut back on power. For a smaller car this might work but for a 4300# SUV is actually hurts. I am back to just three slots open and testing.

https://www.gassavers.org/garage_imag...vv3ch6t3fr.jpg

The Three (3) middle slots are now open...the second on the passenger side leads to the air box...