Thermodynamics and heat transfer are irrefutable laws.
Airflow through the OEM radiator, intercooler, and vents are well suited for the stock 450hp/510lb-ft, under parameters that meet the strict parameters of an OEM.
The ecosystem works well as designed for stock vehicles operating as designed—driving unencumbered, or towing within specifications—in a vehicle maintained to specifications.
Blocking airflow to the radiator/intercooler for a stock engine with lights/grills/accessories/etc., is not part of any engineering equation.
Performance Mods: Increased power linearly and/or exponentially increases heat (air-fuel/larger displacement/forced induction/etc). Sometimes modders don’t fully take the laws of thermodynamics in consideration when boosting power—especially on the heat transfer/extraction side under load.
NOTE1: In NASCAR, a small piece of tape or a stray hotdog wrapper will dramatically increase water temps and degrade power at speed—in an extremely well engineered thermodynamic ecosystem.
NOTE2: I would never block even a small portion of airflow to my radiator/intercooler/engine bay vents /grille—but that’s just me. Vehicles with OEM light bars in the grille (ie Tundra) had airflow designed with that in mind.
NOTE3: High load is not only high speeds/high air flow, low speed/low flow—but also high load conditions (such as towing) that interfere with efficient heat transfer.
NOTE4: Mall runs, coffee drive thrus, and school drop off idling—safety first! Extra lights are key as visibility is more important than airflow.
I’m no curmudgeon. Have fun and enjoy. Put some tape on the grille to improve aero (kidding!)
