I've spent the last two day searching for a good source of mesh to be used for a grille cover or vent covers for my vented hood. If you do a search, there are a few links to various sites and suggestions but I found what I think fits the bill perfectly and is MUCH cheaper to boot.

ACE Hardware.

Specifically, their 24" x 36", 1/4" Hex Aluminum Sheet, .032" thick. It's light, semi flexible, very good looking (brushed), and will keep rocks out of your FMIC and oil coolers. It "seems" to have a very high void percentage and it looks better than the expanded metal stuff they had there as well.

Additionally, they have aluminum weave mesh as well in what looked like 2 squares per inch and three squares per inch. Either would work very well and it'll save you a bundle. I ended up paying $2 and change for the 24x36" piece as they didn't have a price on it. I "believe" it's around $15 however.

My only dillemma is whether or not I should paint it. I have a black third gen with a polished GReddy FMIC. Painting it black will help with the stealth, the brushed aluminum look adds a bit of "class" and it won't chip over time, necessitating a repaint. What do you guys think? I'll post a few pics here. The last pic is of the bar code so that others can go in and order it if need be (as in not in stock already).
Michel

 

Here's a shot with my hand included, so you can get an idea of the hex size.

 

overall of the entire piece.

 

here's the bar code.

 

Looks good, thanks. And its almost time to trim those nails, Just kidding. I'm going to pick some up.
Eric