Chimney of heat near door hinge

chuckbrandt · #1 (**permalink**) 07-23-2006, 07:42 AM

While driving 3 hours to and from an open track event yesterday I had some time to consider some nagging problems with my build. One is engine compartment heat getting into the cockpit. I had never found the specific source before but at interstate speeds I found there is a chimney of heat coming out of the door hinge. Like it's out of the cavity between the footbox side and the outside of the body and it shoots up out of the recessed area where the door hinge is bolted to the body. I had ERA bond the body on my car so I'm not sure exactly of the lay of the land under there.

My question is where should I try to block this heat? From the inner fender or the footbox side? Is there something missing or lost that is supposed to stop this path for heat?

Thanks, Chuck

jschiller · #2 (**permalink**) 07-23-2006, 09:46 AM

I'm not sure but I think this is an area where ERA is now shooting expanding foam insulation on factory cars. Since I am still in the build stage, I am anxious to hear from Bob on this one, too.

Jim Holden · #3 (**permalink**) 07-24-2006, 07:21 AM

Folks:

There should be a foam piece to insert into the space between the cowl support framework and the body. I've used the type of foam that you get at the hardware store for the space created in a double hung window when using a window AC.

Jim

luke-44 · #4 (**permalink**) 07-24-2006, 07:39 AM

Chuck - there is an optional cooling vent that is offered that goes in the inner wheel well.

Here is the link - scroll down a bit to the 5th or 6th item....

http://www.erareplicas.com/427/options.htm

Good luck, B

strictlypersonl · #5 (**permalink**) 07-24-2006, 03:25 PM

Sorry 'bout the delay. I had to find out what the latest and greatest technique is from the boys in the assembly shop... And Mondays are always a mess from all the weekend+ calls.

We normally put some foam bulkheads between the footbox and the body shell, plus some latex foam to seal it up completely. I will have some detailed instructions done in a day or two.

chuckbrandt · #6 (**permalink**) 07-24-2006, 04:09 PM

Thanks Bob, I look forward to your always helpful instructions

Chuck

P.S. Here is a picture from the open track taken by Patt Buell!

strictlypersonl · #7 (**permalink**) 07-29-2006, 07:29 AM

I've posted a new page that you can sneak into your manual here.

Of course it's now in the latest manual too.

chuckbrandt · #8 (**permalink**) 07-30-2006, 07:41 PM

Thanks Bob, Nicely done as always!

Chuck

Excaliber · #9 (**permalink**) 07-31-2006, 09:59 AM

I long ago disconnected my 'fresh air' vent\tubing that directs BLAST FURNACE heat into the cockpit. I found the same thing on my old Austin Healey 3000. The 'fresh air' vents pickup up so much engine\header heat their not a help at all.

But maybe that has more to do with the hot Hawaii climate?