Just what the world needs...another deckplate mod write-up.

The write-up is on my "Performance" page. Check it out and let me know what you think.

 

Dang Jalaber, you are on a roll today
Great write-up again.
This one gets the two again.

Like I have mentioned before, it's nice to see write-ups about modifications, even if it's just a Maglite as it gives others ideas.

 

Very nice. Thanks.

 

Yeah, but your next assignment is to figure out a mod similar that us 2nd gens can do! LOL :beaver:

-Ryan

 

Jalaber, once again, very professional!

 

In the grand tradition of adding to an old post instead of creating anew one, I present this:

Has anyone investigated at all the effects of using different sized deckplates for the deckplate mod? Is there one that's too big/is there an optimum size? Are there situations where one's engine might perform better without the added airflow (different climates, etc.)?

I've hade my 6" deckplate mod installed for a few weeks now, & I definitely HEAR a difference, I'm pretty sure I feel a difference, doesn't really seem to be an advantage at the pump, but I'm working on a tank with the plate in right now to compare.

 

The only way you would notice a difference at the pump is if you modify your driving style to get better gas mileage because of the slight increase of power. It is not much but there is a difference esp on hills which you may notice when you fill up. The extra power should be quite noticeable.

 

Define 'modify"...

After the few days with the hole in the box I leadfooted it for a while, but the last few weeks (particularly after running out of gas due to my ever moreso jacked up gas guage) I've tried to go back to my normal driving style.

It's an auto btw.

 

I have a 5" in my airbox. It looks very clean, and doesn't overlap the way the 6" ones I've seen do. It definitely looks bigger than a 4". but the fact is I think it is too noisy of a modification, so I leave mine closed at all times.

 

I can't even find where to get one. Othersize I would have already put one on my 2G. Home depot, Ace, the local spa store. No one even had a clue. Any ideas?

 

Well because you're in Kansas I dont think Marine supply stores number like the stars. I would recomend the Internet. Try a Google search for 4" deckplate. They may also be listed as "inspection plates"

Here is the first one that came up
http://www.sailnet.com/

The Beckson deckplate is pretty much what everyone has. Personaly I think the clear lid is slick.

 

Would you believe I almost bought an 8" deckplate for mine and was looking for a 10 inch at first? (jigsaw now, measure later)

I actually like the slight overlap on mine. I was worried about it at first, but I really like the finished product.

 

I ordered off of sailnet and was happy with their service.
Shipping was free for me too!

 

James,
You know you do a great job with your write-ups. I believe it takes talent to explain difficult procedures, breaking them down into their components so they can be understood by the average layman. Your website is so well designed and clear.

Some time ago this deckplate mod subject came up and as I was installing mine, I experimented with the addition of the screen, using a band clamp. However, I really did not like that solution and tried something else, which I believe is a lot neater and very secure. Here is my writeup on that option:

IMHO, the best way to install a piece of fiberglass screen material when installing the deckplate is as follows:

1) Cut a circular piece of the screen material about the size of the outside circumference of the deckplate (+/- 5.5"),

2) Carefully place the piece of screen across the face of the +4" hole on the front of the air box, positioning it equidistant from side to side.

3) Take the deckplate and carefully press it into the hole with the screw holes already lined up so that you won't have to turn or twist the deckplate once you have it pressed into the hole.
Note: The procedure of pressing the deckplate into the airbox hole will cause the screen to be pressed snuggly into the hole.

4) Then all you have to do is screw it down and you are done.

There is no need to use a clamp or anything on the inside of the airbox to hold the screen in place.

I also used a piece of 1/2" adhesive backed foam insulation to make a tighter seal around the deckplate. I applied the insulation to the back of the deckplate trim ring using the outer edge as my guide. The foam is not dense and compresses easily.

 

Hey, this is cool to see a two year old thread revived.

Peter, that is a great way to do the screen. I didnt think to add the screen until after I siliconed down the DP, hence the clamp. Your way seems much cleaner. Foam gasket is cool too, avoids the whole silicon/sensor issue, although off-roaders may be concerned about the foam repeatedly getting wet.