This cold blast here in the midwest has me thinking about grille covers. With an oversized fan and radiator on my v10, it doesn't like getting up to temp, unless I'm on the interstate, especially now that its -20. So, would it be worthwhile to build a simple cover that bolts onto the grille to keep the engine warmer during my short, daily drives? And would it be worthwhile to leave the bottom slots open?

something like this?

 

Absolutely. I use one every fall in wa and it only gets to 32 out here. I use a 180 tstat and it helps warm up and heater temp and mileage. One report I read said to leave a gap in the middle for the fan clutch. Don't know how significantly that helps but I do it. There used to be winterfronts for sale a good decade ago but not anymore. If I was in the Midwest right now, I'd cover up! And I'm from mn!

 

I live in southern michigan, currently, it's like -11 outside....... I never put anything over the radiator/grille. The engine still gets up to temp, and the heater works as well as you would expect when it is that cold out.......

 

I'm right there with you

 

Old school solution: piece of cardboard cut to fit in front of the rad.

 

That's what I did for my 440 station wagon and dad did it to a Celica in da UP back in the 70's.

 

Alright. I might try it.

 

Also, if it works to well, you can trim the cardboard down.