First, how necessary is the Vortech supplied heat shielding bag? Has anyone tried having their Aftercooler ceramic coated or anything like that instead? I'd really like to not run the bag, but with it sitting above the drivers side header, it'll probably need something.

Second, what about routing the water lines to it? I really don't want to run them up the drivers side and across the top like the instructions say; I'd prefer to keep it a bit cleaner and go underneath and up from the bottom, but it comes within inches of the #7 header tube (ceramic coated SLP 1-3/4"). I may try shielding them somehow, or replacing a short section with metal piping, but wanted to see if anyone has already done this.

Lastly, if you have pictures of any custom installations or anything you suggest doing that's different from the instructions, shoot me a private email to blownf1@aol.com

Thanks!

 

I didn't use the heat shielding on mine and I still only see about a 10 degree raise in IATs per 2nd gear pull.

I would like to use it but the sheilding I had was really nasty and torn.

 

I would not recommend this for servicability reasons. It is very difficult to access the water connections on the back of the intercooler. The only way to attach the hoses to the intercooler is with it out, then slide it into place. Also, it takes me about 5 minutes to remove the aftercooler piping and swing the cooler out of the way to access the spark plugs. If the hoses come in from the bottom, you won't be able to swing it out of the way.

Mike

 

That's a good point, but I've got a tubular k-member and I plan to have a connection to separate the cooler (with drains in each) and pull it out for the top with about 3' of hose. I also may leave the lines long enough to allow me to pull the excess upward. The tubular k-member gives me lots of room and options, and the extra hose gives me a bit more capacity so I don't think it'll be a problem. My reservoir is under the battery along with the pump. We had to re-design some of the layout due to other items already installed in certain places. That and I don't want the water lines running over by the fuse box area behind the headlight, nor laying on the drivers side fender, so up from the bottom ended up behind a necessity and looks cleaner IMHO. We'll see how it goes, and adjust as necessary. Thanks for the thoughts!