'87 Shelby Lancer

[comnigo]

Hi,
I have been putting the car back together because of the deer damage. I noticed my car, #228, did not have a certain part that I have been finding on donor vehicles. The car needed a header panel and I found 2 candidates. Both Lebaron GTS's. They had a rubber like panel that fits just below the grille opening. It has a metal flange attached to it that screws to the underside of the grille opening, it kinda looks like a shelf that extends behind the grille. Did the Shelby's have these or were they removed for better cooling??? Before I finish bolting everything together, I'd like to know if this was indeed on the Shelby cars or if they were omitted. Thanks, nick

[looneytuner]

I didn't run out and look but I guess they had it. That piece directs the air to the rad and intercooler.

[comnigo]

Looneytuner,
When you get a minute give it a peek and confirm if it is there or not. thankyou.
My theory, and only a theory, is that the fog lights the shelby facility plugged into the lower bumper openings blocked some incoming air and they removed this from the top to open up the area. With the piece in place it looks like air hits maybe the top 1/3 to 1/2 of the radiator/Intercooler. OR mine was removed by a previous owner

[looneytuner]

Mine is an automatic and has a big transmission cooler going all the way across. My guess is they just left it out for convenience.
The original purpose of the piece was to increase cooling.
Remember that they just used a TI engine and upped the hp.
Your idea might be right since the SL trim would force more air in anyway.