So... I'm about this close to taking a Dremmel to my front bumper in a big way. The reason is that I want to accomplish a few things related to cooling, and secondarily for appearance.

First, I'll remove those stupid DRL's, so if anyone wants them (they're black 507 DRL surrounds), let me know - they'll be available soon.

Second, I'm going to enlarge the bumper side openings to get some more airflow through to the new 44O aux oil cooler on the passenger side (will require some finishing work by a body shop for sure, but I am confident I can get the shape/size generally close). Will also replace all of the mesh with something similar to what's on the BS.

The most important mod will be to install some front brake cooling ducts for better track performance. I'm aware of what Dad's did with his car, but I'm not cutting into the hollow frame rail like he did for his ducts. I'm thinking of putting them on the outside edges of the bumper center opening on either side of the oil cooler (which will lay flat with the 44O upgrade like the BS). I removed the solid panels in this area last year, and there looks to be enough space in there to possibly route some corrugated hose through (maybe). The problem will be connecting the hose to the backside of the rotor easily. I can get something fabbed up. Renntech also has a carbon fiber duct that attaches to the hub assembly but is for the CLK BS. Not yet sure if it will fit the C (unlikely), and it's pretty expensive anyway for what it is.

I can't be the only one who is considering or has done any of this? Does anyone have pics of a modified chopped-up front bumper like this, or has anyone else found a way to get brake cooling ducts through the front end and attached to the hub/rotor assembly?

 

DIBS ON DRL!!!!

On another note, do you think the black series bumper would serve your needs?

 

Ok you get them. Lottery closed.

The problem with the BS front bumper is that then I would have to get the BS front fenders as well because it is way too wide for ours. Purchasing that and cutting it up to fit seems counterproductive to me, and going full BS conversion is not (yet) where I want to take this thing. Looking for more of a 'halfway-house' between here and there. Besides, it will be unique for sure, and will get me what I need for now.

 

These are the areas I cut out. If you notice on a normal C63, this is solid plastic behind the mesh (maybe to force more air into the front coolers, but I haven't noticed any difference at all). I think the size and location are perfect to run ducting to the brakes.

 

And for the bumper openings, I figured something like this (it's rough just to give an idea)

 

That would work I think. Those two large openings on the sides would basically be how the black series is.

 

Just an idea. keep the stock bumper (in case) and get a black series replica that fits the c63. Mod that IF needed or very little at least. It will be easier and look a bit more aggressive and stock like as well. Not to say your going to do a hack job but at least this way there is a lesser chance. Just an idea.


Also I will take the DRL if they don't sell. I have paypal ready.

 

All of the BS narrow-body replicas I have found are made of FRP, and have all sorts of bad things going on with random canard placements etc, neither of which I want on the car.

And I like my V-style lip. I'm not looking to make a huge change here. I'll probably start hacking away at it in the morning.

 

Look at Pegasus Racing for silicone duct (3 inch) as well as round inlets. They also have prefab mounts to attach the hose in lieu of the dust cover behind the rotor. You may get away with buying one of those prefab units and trim it to fit. Worked well for my Z.

 

Awesome, thanks for the tip B

What do you think - can I pull this off ok? I don't see this being a big deal. Need some body and paint work anyway. Should turn out nice I think?

I need to take the bumper off in the morning. The only question I have left to answer, is can I route hoses through to the wheel well from there, or is there anything important in the way.

 

Lots of potential still on our non-BS platform. Thanks for pushing the envelope and sharing your ideas

 

Nice project. Should show good benefits on the track. Hope you can source the pieces you need to make it work. Looks like you are leading the way on this brake and engine cooling mod.

 

What's behind the bumper in those areas in the middle? I've installed a number of brake ducts on cars. Summit has all sorts of inlets that would hide nicely behind the mesh. Also some fans would be nice.

 

Nothing. It looks like a straight shot. I decided to clay, polish, seal and wax today instead of doing this (car really needed some TLC bad, gave her some race gas too while I was at it), but I got a good look in there. Also found this pic from one of Dad's posts when he was fitting the BS cooling system which shows the area well. I can route it right through the corner of the aux oil duct work.

 

Thanks for the kind words Mort. I think Wobble64 has led on these things generally, I've just been keeping up. But now that his car is no longer going to be on track, im happy to take the mantle.

 

Wait, what?! What happened to Wobble's car? His was what I dreamed to be able to make mine and I followed the progress a lot!

 

He's got a dedicated track toy now. My post is actually a passive-aggressive attempt to get him out in his C63 again...

 

Looks like it'll be a tight fit with brake ducting. If routing the hose pose a significant challenge, the Porsche GT3 brake air guides may work. You may be able to rig it on the LCA to channel fresh air to the rotors.

 

Some inspiration

 

Dude, you have ***** of steel and are to be applauded. I have done brake upgrades all round but not the cooling. I think what you are looking at is very feasible, and I also think you are correct in thinking it shouldn't be that complicated.

HOWEVER.......I just don't have the stones to dremel my car. Ive done a lot of mods but they have all been more easily reversible, or on a cheaper car lol.

I salute you, sir. This is the essence of modding and rodding.

 

No other way than taking the bumper off and check - wait: My car sits in the shop with the bumper off right now. If I could get there before it goes back on again, I could shoot you a bunch of pics. A 3 inch brake duct is bigger than you think.....


Given my work schedule Tuesday to Thursday I will not be able to get there then, but if someone is at the shop, say tomorrow, I can get you pictures. I'll try.

 

What were you planning on using to attach the duct to the brake? Looks doable with very little modification.

 

Yeah, I've got an idea for that but not sure yet if it will pan out. Stay tuned.

 

That would be a huge help bud, thanks! I won't get a chance to start on this until next weekend.

 

You don't need the bumper off to see underneath for routing. That 3" silicone duct can be squished to an oval shape no problem. I would suggest mounting directly to the dust shield.

Pegasus will have everything you need.