What to Pay Attention to When Purchasing an Engine Guard Plate for a Car
4 Answers
Here are specific considerations when purchasing an engine guard plate for a car: 1. Purchase qualified products from official channels: There are many types of products on the market, including various derived guard plates made from different materials. Their appearances and colors may look similar, making it difficult to distinguish the actual material. 2. Pay attention to breathability and reserved openings: To maintain ventilation and heat dissipation, choose a guard plate with heat dissipation holes on the surface. Additionally, some reserved gaps on the plate are designed for maintenance purposes, so it's best to compare them in advance when purchasing. 3. Material: Opt for new aviation-grade aluminum alloy material, which not only has strong toughness and excellent anti-collision performance but also outstanding thermal conductivity.
When choosing an engine guard, I pay special attention to the material selection. Among metal guards, manganese steel is the strongest but heavier, aluminum alloy is lighter but more expensive, and ordinary steel plates are cheaper but prone to rust. Plastic guards are lightweight but offer limited protection, while carbon fiber is very light but costly. It's also important to check for vehicle-specific models to avoid buying universal ones that may not fit properly after installation. During installation, make sure to leave space for engine drop-down to avoid compromising collision safety design. For those who frequently drive on rough roads, a sturdy material is recommended, while lightweight materials are more suitable for urban use. Regularly check for loose screws on the guard and inspect for water accumulation after driving through deep water.
As a frequent long-distance driver, I particularly value the heat dissipation performance of engine underguards. After installation, the engine compartment temperature typically rises by around 5 degrees, especially noticeable with metal materials. I prefer underguards with air deflector channels or mesh designs to aid cooling and prevent engine overheating during continuous uphill driving. In southern regions, rust resistance is also crucial - aluminum-magnesium alloy performs well in coastal areas. During installation, pay special attention to ground clearance; excessively heavy or thick underguards may reduce chassis height by 1-3 cm, affecting off-road capability. Weekly inspections for debris trapped underneath are essential to prevent unusual noises.
I think there are three key issues to pay attention to when installing an engine guard. Choose manganese steel material for the most rugged and durable option, capable of withstanding heavy impacts on rough roads. Installation must match the original vehicle's mounting holes to avoid drilling and damaging the chassis structure. Ensure a 3cm gap from the exhaust pipe to prevent metal overheating. Plastic-steel material is lightweight and sufficient, making it highly recommended. After installation, remember to test drive on bumpy roads to ensure there are no abnormal noises. Regularly wash the accumulated dust under the guard during car washes. Replace the guard immediately if it cracks—don't make do with a damaged one.
