Radiator/Condenser Mod for FMIC Clearance
Posted: Fri Jun 07, 2019 9:48 pm
I already covered this in my build thread, but decided maybe a dedicated thread needs to be made.
Some of us have noticed that there's not enough clearance for the Eurocompulsion Frontmount Intercooler (FMIC) to install without contacting the condenser. This is made even worse if your condenser has been replaced with an aftermarket unit that has less clearance.
There is a rather simple fix, which if done preventatively, can prevent you having to either replace an FMIC hose or even a condenser core. The mode involves simply modifying the radiator brackets to move the whole radiator/condenser assembly backward slightly. If you have a catless downpipe clearance is not an issue on the backside. Not sure about with the stock downpipe heat shields though.
BEFORE - The Problem:
Step 1: Remove bumper.
(NO PHOTO PROVIDED.)
Step 2: Remove the two brackets supporting the bottom of the radiator. This can be done without removing the radiator as it will "hang" by the hoses. This is OK as long as you don't drive it like that. They're held on by a single bolt and then slide off the pin on the bottom of the radiator.
Step 3: Drill a pilot hole in the radiator support bracket. It's up to you how far back to move everything. You have more clearance with a catless or 200 cell cat than with the stock downpipe and heat shield. Be sure to check your clearance! You don't want the rad fan or wiring pushed back too close to the exhaust that it will melt!
Step 4: Drill out a new hole for the rubber isolator to sit in.
Step 5: Move rubber isolators.
Step 6: Reinstall the support brackets, and bumper.
(NO PHOTO PROVIDED)
AFTER:
You may want to just slot the original hole if you want a little less rearward movement. Mine fit like this but I recommend you test the new position before you drill to see if you're happy with it!
Also note that for the passenger side, you probably want to go about 1/2 the distance I did and not move it back as far. If you move it back all the way, there will be less clearance for the silicone FMIC hose where it goes through. So measure twice cut once!
Some of us have noticed that there's not enough clearance for the Eurocompulsion Frontmount Intercooler (FMIC) to install without contacting the condenser. This is made even worse if your condenser has been replaced with an aftermarket unit that has less clearance.
There is a rather simple fix, which if done preventatively, can prevent you having to either replace an FMIC hose or even a condenser core. The mode involves simply modifying the radiator brackets to move the whole radiator/condenser assembly backward slightly. If you have a catless downpipe clearance is not an issue on the backside. Not sure about with the stock downpipe heat shields though.
BEFORE - The Problem:
- 20190329_184423.jpg (130.72 KiB) Viewed 8428 times
Step 1: Remove bumper.
(NO PHOTO PROVIDED.)
Step 2: Remove the two brackets supporting the bottom of the radiator. This can be done without removing the radiator as it will "hang" by the hoses. This is OK as long as you don't drive it like that. They're held on by a single bolt and then slide off the pin on the bottom of the radiator.
- 20190329_184038.jpg (75.57 KiB) Viewed 8428 times
Step 3: Drill a pilot hole in the radiator support bracket. It's up to you how far back to move everything. You have more clearance with a catless or 200 cell cat than with the stock downpipe and heat shield. Be sure to check your clearance! You don't want the rad fan or wiring pushed back too close to the exhaust that it will melt!
- 20190402_180015_HDR.jpg (160.2 KiB) Viewed 8428 times
Step 4: Drill out a new hole for the rubber isolator to sit in.
- 20190402_194145.jpg (146.74 KiB) Viewed 8428 times
- 20190402_195655.jpg (100.39 KiB) Viewed 8428 times
Step 5: Move rubber isolators.
- 20190403_165948.jpg (104.3 KiB) Viewed 8428 times
Step 6: Reinstall the support brackets, and bumper.
(NO PHOTO PROVIDED)
AFTER:
- 20190403_181745.jpg (126.09 KiB) Viewed 8428 times
You may want to just slot the original hole if you want a little less rearward movement. Mine fit like this but I recommend you test the new position before you drill to see if you're happy with it!
Also note that for the passenger side, you probably want to go about 1/2 the distance I did and not move it back as far. If you move it back all the way, there will be less clearance for the silicone FMIC hose where it goes through. So measure twice cut once!