Blocked grille

Dex857 · September 23, 2001

I am sure this has been asked and answered before but.....

Take a look at

and then look at

Why did GM block out these grille's ???? what is the reason for having them blocked or unblocked...??

I know the that you will get more or less air...

But why block them

Zane · September 23, 2001

Hmm, those pics arn't coming up for me.

THE BIGPUNN · October 18, 2001

vehs heat up faster with blocked grills.

MountaineerTom · October 18, 2001

Here's what I did to mine. Don't really know why they blocked them off though.

AirForceAngler · October 18, 2001

It is just a guess, but I imagine it has something to do with what options are ordered on the truck. Maybe if the truck has the 4.3 or 4.8 it is blocked to give better aerodynamics, but if the truck has a larger engine, it is open for better cooling. Might have to do with towing packages, too. Maybe manual trannies are blocked and autos are open for cooling.

Just a guess.

chevy4x4trucks · October 18, 2001

Well to comply w/ your theory my 4.8 has it blocked. But, I was guessing that it was depending upon when they were made.

siume99 · October 18, 2001

I have a 2001 Tahoe with the 5.3L and towing package and mine are blocked. I don't know if it is just a styling thing. I don't think they make much of a difference since they are so narrow. A lot of air turbulence on that brick of a front end. The front grill and under the bumper probably gives the engine enough cooling. I think they look better with the blocks removed though. How easy are they to remove?

MountaineerTom · October 18, 2001

Quote from siume99, posted on Oct. 18 2001,1:51

I think they look better with the blocks removed though. How easy are they to remove?

They just snap right out. If you crawl under the truck, you'll be able to see the back side of them, and you'll see how easy it is.

chevy4x4trucks · October 18, 2001

Quote from MountaineerTom 99Z71, posted on Oct. 18 2001,1:08

Quote from siume99, posted on Oct. 18 2001,1:51
I think they look better with the blocks removed though. How easy are they to remove?

They just snap right out. If you crawl under the truck, you'll be able to see the back side of them, and you'll see how easy it is.

I didn't know they even came out. Hmmm, I guess I'll do that tonight after I put on my K&N. I've also go to put my vortec cover back on, all painted up, does it look nice, I'll get some pics this weekend of the engine compartment.