I made a grill insert that I zip tied behind by factory bumper. It is actually expanded metal. The problem I ran into day is while driving, ice was building up on the expanded metal. Hope this isn't a stupid question, but will this cause a problem.

I didn't notice by temp gauge going up, but I did see some smoke (maybe steam) coming from the hood.

What do you think?

 

I'm sorry, I tied it behind the factory grill, not bumper.

Thanks

 

not too sure, but i do know that i saw steam come from my grill (stock) the other day when it was really wet and cold out.
i wouldn't be too worried but again i'm not completely sure

 

the steam is normal. radiator is hot, and cold water hits it. Not a problem at all.

 

after driving in snow my jk always has steam pouring out the front, at first i was a little concerned but now i worry if there isn't any.

 

I was worried about air not getting to the engine. Any concern there?

 

I've had this grill mod for some time now and haven't had any problems with temp, even when driving from detroit to philadelphia... The steam is normal and part of the quirks of the JK I guess. First time I noticed it I freaked out a little, but it seems almost normal now.

 

I don't think you will have many problems with air flow over the radiator in the winter time even with ice building up. I have seen many people who have something to block the air flow to the radiator in the winter time to help the engine warm up, and perform better, and the air temp is cold enough you should b efine. I would worry about mud in the summer time though blocking the air flow.

 

I'd have to agree with littlejon on this one

I usually leave a pile of snow on top of the bumper to block air, of course my inner fender liners are gone so i get almost no cold air protection for the engine bay.

 

Yeah, up here lots of people actually cover their grill completely with cardboard to cut out on the cold air flowing through there in the winter. Helps the motor warm up faster and it's cold enough that they don't typically overheat.