Rear "modesty" muffler panel

TMACK · 10-12-2009, 01:54 PM

Question, please. While working on my 2009 Passion, I removed the decorative black plastic modesty panel (for want of a better term) to better access the engine.
It dawned on me: this is an aerodynamic drag that serves no function, other than looks.
Has anyone come up with an aftermarket grill that would allow for better airflow? Some kind of grill like in the front?

Smartmadness: are your engineers running to the drawing board?

smart fortimo · 10-12-2009, 02:05 PM

I wouldn't have thought that the rear valance would cause undue areodynamic drag, would it?

**Dunerunner** · 10-12-2009, 02:08 PM

Isn't that what produces the air flow through the engine compartment? The belly pan creates a relatively smooth pass for air flow under the car and I would think that without the rear valance, it would slip right out without scouring the engine compartment.

Bum-bling-B · 10-12-2009, 02:42 PM

You're talking about the rear skirt correct? One member did cut his out a little.

TMACK · 10-12-2009, 02:52 PM

Correct. Thanks for the terminology. Valence. I'd never have thought of that word.
Good point about the engine scoop aspect; in my defense, I HAD thought of that. But if that's so, it does create a drag. Miniscule, but drag nevertheless. And that flow would pass over the muffler/cat, and yes, there are vents at the top of the assembly, so that would be part of the design. Or is that just for passive cooling of the muffler/cat group?
On the other hand, this is a water cooled engine.

I don't know; just tossing it up for consideration.
I did return the valence post Forge install, by the way.