i just installed my apexi power intake. i like how i have more room in my engine bay (along w other things) but i was looking around at the fan. is that black thing around it thats under the snorkel the fan shroud? do i need it? is there anything that i can do to clean that area up and get more room? would a new fan solve that? thanks for the help!

 

yea, it is needed with the factory fan...some people, like myself, go with an electric fan setup, eliminating the stock fan and shroud...but then again, a lot of people say that the stock fan is the best you can find...

 

Yes that big honkin piece of plastic is your fan shroud. Basiclly it is needed to channel air in through the rad. without it you will overheat.

Stock fan and shroud setup:
Pluses: as long as the fan clutch works it will keep your radiator cool.

Minuses: Easy to chop your fingers off. shroud takes up a LOT of room in the engine compartment. the fan eats a inute ammount of power and tourque from the engine. And last but not least, if the fan is off center it can KO your water pump.

Electric fan setup:
Pluses: More manageable tempature control. Frees up some tourque and power. A much more open and accessable engine compartment.

Minuses: Requires wiring. Can be expensive. Some re-engineering involved with some setups. Creates a draw on the electrical system which can shorten the life of your alternator. can chop your fingers off.

 

ah thanks! i thought thats what it was but i wasnt sure.