TheSamba.com :: View topic - Looking for a way to cap off heat tubes since not using blower

Wed Sep 03, 2025 7:54 pm

I was thinking of using this tape. It seems easy to use, will blend in and not permanent if I want to install blower later.

I am referring to the oval shape and round shape tubes connecting above the tin to the heat exchangers. Thanks.

Ps I am blocking of a square on the rear tin also since I am not using the original air intake port.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09KV8HGS4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A52UN0TAEG5SG

Wed Sep 03, 2025 8:01 pm

Plugging those isn’t essential I don’t think because the air flows forward from the fan to the cabin absorbing heat as it moves across the heat exchangers. I don’t think much hot air would enter the engine compartment if the ports weren’t blocked off because the flapper valves would normally be closed preventing flow in reverse. That said, sure… cap them off with tape. Most any duct tape should work.

Wed Sep 03, 2025 10:18 pm

you need air flowing thru the heat exchangers to keep them from melting. You could cap off the fan boost for idle speeds if you wanted to but when you need defrost you will miss them.

Wed Sep 03, 2025 10:55 pm

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For the left side duct I was able to force a correctly sized chainlink fencepost cap into the duct.

While for the right side I just used the tape you are thinking of to tape off the plastic adapter.

I later just welded up the holes in the heat exchangers and the tin, which by getting rid of the leaks in the ductwork gave me just as much air to the front as the stock booster fan did.

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