Radiator baffle DIY – what is latest material and template?

[spiros]

Mm, these are different type of baffles. They do make sense though. Maybe i ll add these as well.

[Ahwahnee]

Purpose of the grille baffles is less clear - may reduce some wind noise.

[ZsZ]

the link that Vanis13 shared is not working, I have previously copied his files so here is my dropbox:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/jverdl3rbitnzuj/AAAizIU2DUijFPBIINtWf7mHa?dl=0
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Zoltan
1.9 MTdi 2wd Multivan (ex Caravelle)
Van since 2006, engine since 2008

[Prairie Maus]

[AllRad]

Hello,

I have installed the GoWesty baffles. There are two side panels and a bottom one. They close off airflow all around the radiator. At the time, this seemed a little odd, because I figured the radiator heated air needs some egress. Otherwise the hot air can only mix turbulently with incoming fresh air. Anyways, I followed the instructions. I noticed no change to my temp gauge readings.

I decided to remove the bottom baffle to see what would happen. Again, no change.

Recently, I temporarily removed the spare tire and clamshell to see if the giant opening under the vehicle would help the heated air exit the system. But again, I see no change to my temp gauge readings.

I guess I'm just confused, what should happen with the addition of these baffles? My Vanagon came with no baffles, because the prior owner removed them. I'm not sure if the sock arrangement even has a bottom baffle...

Other baffling thoughts?

[bobbyblack]

Your temp gauge is in your engine compartment. It has to do with the circulation of coolant and temps in that area. It is funny how something as simple as a thermostat can fool you.. It works to even out the temp, sending coolant to the Rad when it needs to cool some. Hence, unless your engine gets quite warm, and sends all coolant (well, since plumbing doesn't actually work that way it never can send ALL) to the Rad, you may see little difference in the needle. Even so, with full flow of coolant to the Rad, you may still not notice a difference... Until the last moment before it is overwhelmed, and you overheat.

Don't play that game. Your odds are poor.

Baffles are there for the last little bit of saving grace. Keep them all in place if possible.
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'87 Westy 'Flossie','86 Westy 'R1','86 tintop GL - Subi2.2 'J2','83.5 stock tintop L 'ZoomBus','74 Karmann Ghia, '63 Notch

[dgbeatty]

This past year I had the opportunity to purchase some new baffles made from stainless steel. They are nifty and will give a future owner many many years of reliable service.
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Schau in das Buch

[djkeev]

I don't have any on my 90.

Replacing the Condensor with a non OEM unit alters the fit dramatically.

On my 86 I modified after market ones to fit.

On this unit I said "screw it" and didn't bother.
No running hot/air flow issues on the highway or in traffic thus far.

Dave
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Ghia
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=392473

Vanagon
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?p=6315537#6315537

Beetle
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=482968&highlight=74+super+vert

[sanchius]

I use expired Coroplast fluted polypropylene political signs.

They work great, are lightweight & easy to cut/form, and make me feel good about recycling.
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[?Waldo?]

The baffles around the radiator make a significant difference in the ability of the radiator to shed heat. A LOT of airflow will bypass the radiator if they are not in place. That's just another one of those things that doesn't matter until it does, and then you are dealing with a disaster.