Screen to Protect Condenser/Radiator

[Easywin]

The previous owner of my Avalon put a metal screen over the condenser to protect it from road debris. The screen was not like screen from a screen door, but more like a grid of 1/8" squares. It was made of stiff metal which I thought it was a good idea to protect the condenser, but it was also the source of the hole in my condenser and the reason for my wallet for becoming lighter.

I would like to know what others are using to guard their condenser/radiators from damage, without hindering airflow.

[DxElite]

I molded 1/4" diamond aluminum mesh to fit into the lower grill.

[JJ9284]

For the race car we use a screen in front of the radiator just like you did. keeps out small rocks and rubber from causing troubles. It works great

[LynchburgCSI]

I can't believe people actually install shields like that. You learn something knew everyday...

[Gothmog3VZ]

Originally Posted by LynchburgCSI

I can't believe people actually install shields like that. You learn something knew everyday...

*new

[Easywin]

Where did you pick up the screen? How did you attach it?

[iovaykind]

Yeah I'm interested in doing that for my '96.. I like how the mesh is forward instead of back, so how'd you attach it?

[DxElite]

Originally Posted by iovaykind

Yeah I'm interested in doing that for my '96.. I like how the mesh is forward instead of back, so how'd you attach it?

That was the main design decision, I didn't want to just put a flat sheet behind the bumper. Make it look more professional by making it flush to the face of the bumper.


Mesh was bought off of ebay, but if I were to buy more I would do more research and find a good place that sells custom sizes.
The ones I got from ebay were standard sizes and wasn't as long as I'd like.
I couldn't get it to go all the way to the bevel at the ends of the grill opening.

I molded the mesh into an angular " [ " shape and inserted it into the grill opening.
The top and bottom of the " [ " are long enough to stick out behind the bumper cover.
The grill opening has those vertical slates so the bottom and top of the mesh were cut so that it can slide back.
Using galvanized steel wire for rust prevention, at each vertical slate where the mesh was cut, I tied the mesh back together behind the vertical slates. This is done at the top and bottom.
The mesh is tied together at the center the two meshes.
As for the very edges where there's basically nothing to tie the mesh to, I drilled small holes to tie it down.

...Not sure if that's clear enough to understand, but I can try to explain it differently or post drawing/pictures if needed.

[iovaykind]

That actually makes a lot of sense I'll be hopping on that soon enough, thanks for the DIY.

[JohnGD]

Originally Posted by DxElite

I molded 1/4" diamond aluminum mesh to fit into the lower grill.