Engine Cover and Truck
Although a lot of folks advise leaving the engine uncovered, it was important to me to completely cover it up. I want to reduce the noise and give the car more of a sleeper look. After deciding how I wanted to do the cover, I took it to a local automotive sheet metal guy to build it. I am really pleased with the way it turned out! The design allows the engine to be serviced by removing panels for access. The entire firewall is removable and all of it is held in place with 1/4 turn Dzus fasteners. The final touch was a carpet cover with thermal insulation sewn into the back side. This cover looks great, holds down heat and is significantly quieter.
If I were to do it again, I might seriously consider using wood with heat shielding on the inside. While it would be heavier than aluminum, it would also dissipate heat and sound very effectively.
Another future consideration is to extend the flat bottom of the Corvair past the cross member, under the engine and back as far as my transaxle. The disrupted flow under the car creates a high-pressure area under the engine cover, which this panel would correct. I'll take a swing at this in the future.
Although a lot of folks advise leaving the engine uncovered, it was important to me to completely cover it up. I want to reduce the noise and give the car more of a sleeper look. After deciding how I wanted to do the cover, I took it to a local automotive sheet metal guy to build it. I am really pleased with the way it turned out! The design allows the engine to be serviced by removing panels for access. The entire firewall is removable and all of it is held in place with 1/4 turn Dzus fasteners. The final touch was a carpet cover with thermal insulation sewn into the back side. This cover looks great, holds down heat and is significantly quieter.
If I were to do it again, I might seriously consider using wood with heat shielding on the inside. While it would be heavier than aluminum, it would also dissipate heat and sound very effectively.
Another future consideration is to extend the flat bottom of the Corvair past the cross member, under the engine and back as far as my transaxle. The disrupted flow under the car creates a high-pressure area under the engine cover, which this panel would correct. I'll take a swing at this in the future.
