Side Vent Mesh Solution - LotusTalk

dgilmore · 02-08-2009, 08:13 PM

I have been working with TurboPhil on a different mesh solution for the side vents. The different look really compliments the lines of the car. the mesh used is very close (small diamond) to the mesh used on the exige. The front of TurboPhil's car matches perfectly.

These are direct fit replacement and will fit on standard elise and clam hinge modified elise cars. TurboPhil has a set on his (his car in the pix).

I make these 2 sets at a time and could make more if enough interest. Price $150+your old side vents. Instructions on mounting will be included. The original hardware is used.

Let me know what you think. Any comments/questions appreciated!

Derek

Trouble uploading pix, should have them up before Monday, Sorry!

madden · 02-08-2009, 08:38 PM

how do you remove the stock vents?

madden · 02-08-2009, 09:22 PM

i think he is just talking about the side scoops, check turbophils log thread there are pics in there

biscoradio · 02-08-2009, 10:16 PM

I'm interested. Hopefully the mesh is similar to kiowapilot's (see interior/exterior board).

shadowhusky · 02-09-2009, 03:05 AM

Here are a few of the pics from another thread.

As for removing the vent,there are two bolts to get the vents off. One very easy to get to bolt if you have Phils clam kit.

Tjis was how I was originally going to do my side vents, but I changed m mind.

newman · 02-09-2009, 05:20 AM

looks really cool!

Dave · 02-09-2009, 05:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by madden

how do you remove the stock vents?

You can reach the vents by jacking and pulling the wheel wells.

Vampyre · 02-09-2009, 05:32 AM

That looks great... very interested in these

dgilmore · 02-09-2009, 05:46 AM

I was able to load a few pix of Phil's car.

These are plastic pieces (actuall original pieces) so they aren't powder coated. The mesh is plastic coated from a local store. I usually paint them flat black or I can use semi-gloss, gloss. I send them put together and ready to install. I could also not attach the mesh so if anyone would like to have them painted to match the body color. But there are black extensions still on the car that might stand out more.

Clam hinge cars: one bolt that attaches pointed towards the front of the car and two slots the vents slide into.

Non Hinged: best way is like Dave said, remove the rear wheel and wheel arch liner. Then are TWO bolts (I believe 10mm): one towards the front (same as above) and one pointed towards the outter fender. Remove these, slide out the old, slide in the new and reattach the bolts.

Shadowhusky's idea is great and will work for hinged. this will work for non hinged or someone that doesn't want to attach to mesh permanently to the car.

The vents can be taken back to stock should the need arise and can be purchased through Lotus Garage.

Yes, it's $150 for both Right and Left vent + your old vents. I pay for shipping to you and you ship the old vents back.

Dave, Yours are looking good and are being shipped out today at lunch. I'll have a tracking number for you this evening. Thanks!

Hope this helps.

Derek

EliseAtLeast · 02-09-2009, 06:20 AM

Will this fit a 07 Exige S? What is the main purpose for it? More airflow to the engine bay or mainly for looks? Thanks.

dgilmore · 02-09-2009, 07:26 AM

I don't know if these will work on an Exige. I think the main concern would be how the side scoops attach to the body. If there is a bolt/clip into the body panel, then you would have a hole that would need to be filled and painted.

I wouldn't expect an increase in air flow to the engine, especially when compared to the side scoops.

Mainly the prupose is looks and trying to get rid of the vent design.

Derek

P.S. I have exige scoops on my elise with the hole drilled in the body panel, so I probably won't be using these on my car. Just saw an opportunity make a great looking car look even better.

slaughtr · 02-09-2009, 07:52 AM

I keep looking for a solution to get rid of all my "fins" at the same time, with the same material. Any plans for that?

X7LDA · 02-09-2009, 09:40 AM

They look great - good job

They won't fit an Exige as the set up is slightly different. Unless you cut the clam a bit

Also - you'd have 3 holes left in the car as the side scoops currently need 3 screws into the clam to hold them in place.

EliseAtLeast · 02-09-2009, 10:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dgilmore

I wouldn't expect an increase in air flow to the engine, especially when compared to the side scoops.

Mainly the prupose is looks and trying to get rid of the vent design.

Thanks for the reply. They do look great by the way

sleeprfocus · 02-09-2009, 10:49 AM

I've done this mod on my car a while back and I definitely prefer the cleaner lines over the Exige side scoops. SCC was the first to do this mod, basically involves cutting the factory Elise side scoops, removing the fins, and replacing it with mesh.

Greenstreak · 02-13-2009, 02:22 PM

Much cleaner then the originals. Very clean and smooth looking. I never really liked the fins.

sleepe · 02-13-2009, 02:30 PM

Do you have pictures of where the mesh attaches to the plastic from the inside of the duct?

Where do you get your mesh?

Finally, You might consider offering a complete set that replaces all the fins with the SAME mesh.
-robert

lutterfer · 02-13-2009, 03:23 PM

Is it only me or anyone else thinks this is a bit TOO EXPENSIVE for a couple mesh grilles?

Love the look though! Nice work

madden · 02-13-2009, 03:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lutterfer

Is it only me or anyone else thinks this is a bit TOO EXPENSIVE for a couple mesh grilles?

Love the look though! Nice work

I'm working on doing the same thing to my vents and it is a ton of work to smooth them then fill the top fin gaps, $150 is a good price

Likuid · 02-13-2009, 07:39 PM

Yes please ... these look real good.

02-08-2009, 08:13 PM	#1 (permalink)
dgilmore Registered User Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 69	Side Vent Mesh Solution I have been working with TurboPhil on a different mesh solution for the side vents. The different look really compliments the lines of the car. the mesh used is very close (small diamond) to the mesh used on the exige. The front of TurboPhil's car matches perfectly. These are direct fit replacement and will fit on standard elise and clam hinge modified elise cars. TurboPhil has a set on his (his car in the pix). I make these 2 sets at a time and could make more if enough interest. Price $150+your old side vents. Instructions on mounting will be included. The original hardware is used. Let me know what you think. Any comments/questions appreciated! Derek Trouble uploading pix, should have them up before Monday, Sorry! Attached Images Last edited by dgilmore : 02-09-2009 at 04:57 AM.

02-09-2009, 03:05 AM	#5 (permalink)
shadowhusky Registered User Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: East China, Michigan Posts: 343	Here are a few of the pics from another thread. As for removing the vent,there are two bolts to get the vents off. One very easy to get to bolt if you have Phils clam kit. Tjis was how I was originally going to do my side vents, but I changed m mind. Attached Images __________________ 2005 Elise, Aubergine, Touring Pack, Sport Pack, Hardtop, Quicksilver Exhaust, Cup Air Box, Tilting Clam, Mesh Grills all around - ( fabricated, not purchased ) 55w 6000k HID's, Painted Engine Covers, Center Console, A/C Surround, Polished Shifter Arm, Ball,and E-Brake Handle, Multivex Mirrors. 2008 Jeep Liberty, Jeep Green Metallic 2002 VW Jetta TDI, Metallic Blue, Daily Driver, 155,000 miles and going strong

02-09-2009, 05:20 AM	#6 (permalink)
newman POSITIVE! Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Buffalo, NY Posts: 1,005	looks really cool! __________________ 2008 Aspen White Exige S240: CF splitter\|CF wing\|CF diffuser\|CF side scoops\|CF mirrors\|Arquay Titanium\|Von-hep delete\|Saikou Michi catch can\|Cup car airbox\|6000K HIDs\|Custom short shift\|Stan+sector111+ctn shifter mods\|vinyl wrapped floorboards\|Flat black AC surround & center gusset\|Tow hooks\|Bootie\|Led park & plate lights\|Smoked front sidemarkers\|DRL delete\|Hella Supertones\|JVC KDAVX44 head unit\|Boyo 420t back up cam. PICS E30GTR Build... too slow... http://www.onyxsyndicate.com/newman

02-09-2009, 05:32 AM	#8 (permalink)
Vampyre Sports Cars Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Rochester, New York Posts: 1,938	That looks great... very interested in these __________________ 2006 Chili Red / Touring / LSD / TC / Forged Wheels / Hard & Soft Top / Lifestyle Paint / Desnorkeled / Odyssey Battery / Sector 111 Extinguisher Bracket / Sector 111 LidBone / CF Splitter / CF Bits / Lotus Stage 2 / Pure X C3 Corvette 383 TPI Stroker 6.3 liters of Torque / 1976 MG Midget, fun run about / 2005 Mits Evo 8 ACD/SSL / Dodge Van for hauling stuff / http://www.photobucket.com/mygarage

02-09-2009, 06:20 AM	#10 (permalink)
EliseAtLeast Registered User Join Date: May 2005 Location: Basking Ridge, NJ Posts: 1,216	Will this fit a 07 Exige S? What is the main purpose for it? More airflow to the engine bay or mainly for looks? Thanks. __________________ '08 Honda S2000 CR (Rio Yellow Pearl) '07 Lotus Exige S (Aspen White) Touring, Traction, Starshield '04 BMW 330 ci (White)

02-08-2009, 08:38 PM	#2 (permalink)
madden Registered User Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Northern, VA Posts: 602	how do you remove the stock vents?

02-08-2009, 09:22 PM	#3 (permalink)
madden Registered User Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Northern, VA Posts: 602	i think he is just talking about the side scoops, check turbophils log thread there are pics in there

02-08-2009, 10:16 PM	#4 (permalink)
biscoradio GG #668 Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: chicago Posts: 299 Images: 2	I'm interested. Hopefully the mesh is similar to kiowapilot's (see interior/exterior board).

02-09-2009, 05:46 AM	#9 (permalink)
dgilmore Registered User Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 69	I was able to load a few pix of Phil's car. These are plastic pieces (actuall original pieces) so they aren't powder coated. The mesh is plastic coated from a local store. I usually paint them flat black or I can use semi-gloss, gloss. I send them put together and ready to install. I could also not attach the mesh so if anyone would like to have them painted to match the body color. But there are black extensions still on the car that might stand out more. Clam hinge cars: one bolt that attaches pointed towards the front of the car and two slots the vents slide into. Non Hinged: best way is like Dave said, remove the rear wheel and wheel arch liner. Then are TWO bolts (I believe 10mm): one towards the front (same as above) and one pointed towards the outter fender. Remove these, slide out the old, slide in the new and reattach the bolts. Shadowhusky's idea is great and will work for hinged. this will work for non hinged or someone that doesn't want to attach to mesh permanently to the car. The vents can be taken back to stock should the need arise and can be purchased through Lotus Garage. Yes, it's $150 for both Right and Left vent + your old vents. I pay for shipping to you and you ship the old vents back. Dave, Yours are looking good and are being shipped out today at lunch. I'll have a tracking number for you this evening. Thanks! Hope this helps. Derek

02-09-2009, 07:26 AM	#11 (permalink)
dgilmore Registered User Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 69	I don't know if these will work on an Exige. I think the main concern would be how the side scoops attach to the body. If there is a bolt/clip into the body panel, then you would have a hole that would need to be filled and painted. I wouldn't expect an increase in air flow to the engine, especially when compared to the side scoops. Mainly the prupose is looks and trying to get rid of the vent design. Derek P.S. I have exige scoops on my elise with the hole drilled in the body panel, so I probably won't be using these on my car. Just saw an opportunity make a great looking car look even better.

02-09-2009, 07:52 AM	#12 (permalink)
slaughtr Big head man Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Boise, Idaho Posts: 5,953 Images: 3	I keep looking for a solution to get rid of all my "fins" at the same time, with the same material. Any plans for that? __________________ My car both sucks and blows. Now with added all natural smoky goodness!

02-09-2009, 09:40 AM	#13 (permalink)
X7LDA Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 173	They look great - good job They won't fit an Exige as the set up is slightly different. Unless you cut the clam a bit Also - you'd have 3 holes left in the car as the side scoops currently need 3 screws into the clam to hold them in place.

02-09-2009, 10:49 AM	#15 (permalink)
sleeprfocus Every Car is a Project Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 816	I've done this mod on my car a while back and I definitely prefer the cleaner lines over the Exige side scoops. SCC was the first to do this mod, basically involves cutting the factory Elise side scoops, removing the fins, and replacing it with mesh. __________________ 2005 Lotus Elise (Jet Blue Metallic) - ForcedFed 340 2002 Ford Focus SVT (Pitch Black) - Powered by 4.6L of V8 goodness

02-13-2009, 02:22 PM	#16 (permalink)
Greenstreak Lotus Wannabe Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Doylestown, Pa Posts: 331	Much cleaner then the originals. Very clean and smooth looking. I never really liked the fins. __________________ 2000 MR2 Spyder(s)

02-13-2009, 02:30 PM	#17 (permalink)
sleepe Registered User Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE Posts: 1,040	Pictures of the inside? Do you have pictures of where the mesh attaches to the plastic from the inside of the duct? Where do you get your mesh? Finally, You might consider offering a complete set that replaces all the fins with the SAME mesh. -robert __________________ Elise'06ST:[size="1"]RAC/r888-Ultradiscs-Larini 8"-Braille-Saikou Michi-Nitron sportpro-RTVbrace-widened undertrays-VF2-manly's inserts-engine damper

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02-13-2009, 03:23 PM	#18 (permalink)
lutterfer Registered User Join Date: Oct 2008 Posts: 42	Is it only me or anyone else thinks this is a bit TOO EXPENSIVE for a couple mesh grilles? Love the look though! Nice work

02-13-2009, 07:39 PM	#20 (permalink)
Likuid Stone Age Gamer Join Date: May 2007 Location: Hartland, MI Posts: 351	Yes please ... these look real good. __________________ - Likuid Stone Age Gamer - Store 2005 Ardent Red Elise