I have been looking for more robust side panels/mounts for a radiator/intercooler setup using the stock mount location for the radiator. Mine are bent/warped and they are super flimsy to begin with. I'd like to cut holes for the intercooler piping but I'm worried they'd be even more flimsy.

I swear I remember some small business that made thick aluminum replacements. Does anyone know anyone that fabricates

something to replace these?

 

The GSL-SE passenger side factory support has an ovel hole for the intake. I think I have one that I powder coated.

 

I appreciate it. I built a turbo FB 20 years ago with a GSL-SE and do remember that. I had to enlarge it slightly more for the IC piping. I just remember them being super flimsy. I'd also like to have something a little nicer looking to match the rest of the build.

 

They're non structural, they are plenty strong enough as is.

 

An interesting tidbit; the 1984 model year SE had the oval cutout in the passenger side radiator support, while the 1985 models had the oval cutout in both passenger AND driver side radiator supports.

The reason for this was that 1984 cars had the airbox intake ducted through the passenger side support to draw cooler air from in front of the radiator, but this resulted in air filters getting drenched when the car was driven through deep water. For the 1985 model year, the oval-shaped plastic duct was extended fully across the span in front of the radiator and through the driver side support to draw air from behind the battery box.

 

LRB has the aluminum top panel, as well as other aluminum bits. You may have to contact them directly to see if they can make the side panels for you. They do seem to have a FB to prototype parts.

 

It may have been LRB I was thinking of. I may have just assumed they made the sides. Strange, I think they would be more desirable than the top panel. I'm still struggling with a decision. I'm thinkin about using the oem setup and keeping the sides whole. Cutting holes in the sides looks awful to me as they are not flat. I would like to attempt to go under the radiator as I am going to use a short radiator. The IC pipes and part of the IC could use the space where the oil cooler would go and then the oil cooler could be relocated. I can't seem to find the right IC that would fit in the area in front of the radiator and support the power goal. The v-mount style would work the best as the end tank style with the perpendicular inlet/outlet at the bottom would be perfect for clearance. I have attached a pic of the IC style. Anything I can find that flows enough won't fit. It's limited to less than 23" in total width due to the passenger side frame, otherwise the FD style would work.

Any ideas for a solution?

Also, I found some pictures of a setup from a car that was for sale. This setup would be ideal. I assume they just did some very nice custom fab work. I wish it was a purchasable kit. Pics attached as well.