INTRODUCTION
I am using Suzuki 800 car since 1998. I observed that during hot dry summer, the efficiency of engine cooling system, while air conditioning is on, dropped considerably. Practically it was not possible to operate the air conditioning in extreme hot weather. I am a keen learner of car designs and using my knowledge, I have modified the hot air exhaust from the engine compartment. Now I am enjoying comfortable air conditioning without accumulation of any extra heat load within the engine compartment. I am writing this article to share this experience with you.
The engineers from Thal Engineering (Representatives of Nippon Denso in Pakistan) have already taken photographs of my modification for further evaluation and feasibility.
THE PROBLEM
While driving on roads with congested slow traffic, Suzuki Mehran always gave up on air conditioning. The engine temperatures rose near to the red range. Ultimately, I had to switch off the A/C. All of my friends using this model had same kind of complaints. I thought that the problem was due to not very well exhaust of air from engine compartment. There seemed to be no place for hot air to get out. This led to accumulation of hot air within the compartment. This ultimately raised the engine temperature beyond normal range. This also had an adverse effect on performance parameters of R 134.
SOLUTION
Out of many options, I tried the most straightforward one. In the engine bonnet, I cut an approx. 9” diameter hole (aligned inline with radiator and above the gear box position) and fitted a radiator fan in it for improved exhaust of air from engine compartment. This fan could be operated manually from instrument panel.
THE FIRST RUN
I tried this prototype in extreme summer at midday in the heat of Faisalabad (Aprox. 470 C). I switched on the A/C as normal and as the temperature started to drift towards the danger zone, I switched on the exhaust fan. This almost immediately gave dramatic results. The engine temperature started to come down. At the same time the efficiency of A/C improved significantly. Since last one and half month, I am running my car with the same system. I feel happy to say that I am enjoying a very comfortable air-conditioned ride while engine is operating within normal temperature limits.
THE BENEFITS
- The engine temperature remains within normal operating limits during hot weather.
- The performance of A/C has improved considerably.
- The lubricant performance is expected to be enhanced.
- The overall life / durability of all engine compartment parts (rubber parts, electrical wiring, etc.) is expected to be increased.
- The overall engine life itself is also expected to be increased.
FURTHER SUGGESTIONS.
The operation of this fan can be automated by installing a sensor at a suitable position within the engine, which could operate the fan whenever engine compartment temperature rose beyond normal operating limits. The location of fan can also be shifted to a suitable location in the side fenders. This will eliminate any compromise on aesthetics as well as effect due to rainy / snowy weather.
please note at the moment i don't have digital camera, so i am not able to attach photos, but whenever i could arrange i will attach some.