Parts You Need
One of the most trusted names in heat-barrier technology is Cool It Thermo-Tec. The company has addressed the hot topic with innovative products and cutting-edge technology for more than 20 years now. Race-proven and nationally available at speed shops everywhere, Thermo-Tec offers multiple solutions for every aspect of a vehicle. We had the company send us a whole assortment of products to test out on Teal Brute. Starting at the top, we tested:
(A) Heat Sleeves
A silicone-coated fiberglass fire sleeving designed to protect wires, cables, and hoses from continuous 500 degrees F and short-term exposure to 2,200 degrees. We used this product to protect Teal's starter wire from exhaust heat.
(B) Exhaust Insulating Wrap (Graphite Black)
Wrapping exhaust with this coated fiberglass insulation helps keep heat inside the system. The hotter exhaust gases exit the system faster thanks to decreased density. The results are increased exhaust scavenging along with lower under-car temperatures. Exhaust Insulating Wrap withstands continuous heat up to 2,000 degrees F, and contains no asbestos. The proprietary Thermal Conduction Technology (TCT) that Cool It Thermo-Tec developed helps conduct heat evenly across the wrap's surface. DC Customs wrapped every inch of Teal's exhaust system from the manifold collectors to the muffler. A significant decrease in heat was noticed immediately following the installation.
(C) Clamp-On Heat Shield
This flexible clamp-on pipe heat shield blocks over 95 percent of the damaging radiant heat of the exhaust. The high-tech composite construction of this heat shield provides the ultimate in protection. We installed this around our Magnaflow high-flowing Universal Spun Catalytic Converter to insulate it from the floor of the Jeep. We also installed it on the driver-side exhaust downpipe to protect the starter and fuel lines from high heat. The kits come complete with all clamps and stainless steel stand-offs. Available in 1-, 2-, and 3-foot lengths, these heat shields also incorporate Thermo-Tec's proprietary coating technology.
(D) Muffler/Cat Heat Shield
We used this product as a muffler heat shield for our Magnaflow muffler. It is made up of woven silica with a flexible Mylar finish. This highly-reflective heat shield can be installed around the catalytic converter, muffler, or any other component to reflect radiant heat away from the undercarriage of the vehicle. The kit includes all necessary fasteners.
(E) Starter Heat Shield
Everybody knows heat destroys the windings of the starter and solenoid. To combat this problem, Thermo-Tec created a non-conductive strap-on heat shield with a highly reflective mylar surface. This shield reflects over 90 percent of radiant heat, adding life to the starter and assuring reliable starts. The universal kit we installed is designed to fit all starters.
Inside, on the floorboard...
Inside, on the floorboard of the passenger side, we installed a portion of Thermo-Tec's Thermo-Guard FR heat and sound insulation. This lightweight, durable shield does everything: reduces sound, absorbs vibration, protects from radiant heat, and provides an extra layer of insulating padding. The product features 100-percent synthetic fiber felt that provides sound and comfort control, and a high-tech foil heat barrier that blocks more than 90 percent of radiant heat. Available in large cut-to-fit rolls, it can be trimmed to any shape or size.
Once the entire exhaust system...
Once the entire exhaust system was insulated, we had DC Customs paint the remainder of the exhaust system, including the wrapped sections, with Thermo-Tec's Hi-Heat black spray paint coating. Not only does this stuff look good up to 2,000 degrees, but it also protects the aluminized steel system from corrosion.
Once you figure out exactly...
Once you figure out exactly where you want the louvers, simply tape off the cut lines and remove the underlying sheetmetal using a cut-off wheel on an electric grinder. Don't forget to wear safety glasses. Race Ace also offers RunCool Louvers in other sizes and in uncoated steel or natural aluminum finishes.
Liquid Heat Reducer Purple...
Liquid Heat Reducer
Purple Ice is a high-performance, synthetic radiator coolant additive. It cuts engine heat by reducing the surface tension of the radiator fluids for improved heat transfer. Purple Ice also helps to prevent the formation of scale deposits in the radiator for optimum coolant flow, and it lubricates the water-pump seals. Purple Ice should always be used in conjunction with antifreeze in regions where freezing temperatures occur. Purple Ice is compatible with traditional ethylene glycol antifreeze (green) and GM Dex-Cool antifreeze.
Armor Shield Armor Shield...
Armor Shield
Armor Shield by Accel is a fiberglass braided heat barrier for areas where spark-plug wires pass around the exhaust manifold or headers. It protects wire sets from high heat while giving that racerlike appearance. It can also be used on fuel lines and coolant hoses. It comes in custom-fit and universal applications and is rated to withstand 450 degrees F.