Driving without Nostrils?

Post by **simonc** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 2:08 am

Hi all,
As I'm going to get two sets of nostrils re-chromed at a place in Blighty (thanks @Thebusofwoe), I would like your opinion on driving without them in place.
Obviously it's going to look horrible for a while, but I can live with that knowing the end result once they're done. However, do they serve a genuine 'protective' purpose as well as an aesthetic one?
Should I place some duct tape over the gap to stop a stone/screw/half a brick from walloping the radiator or am I just being over cautious?
Thanks as ever, Simon.

JDM-BB4 · Post by **JDM-BB4** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 8:15 am

Don't drive it! You'll disrupt the airflow through the engine bay!

Seriously though, I wouldn't worry, your just as likely to get a stone through one on the slats in a bumper as you are through the nostril vents.

How much is the re-chroming out of interest?

Post by **simonc** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 8:45 am

@JDM-BB4 Morning sir, thanks for that.
I've just sent the email and the photos to the company so I'm hoping they'll come back with a quote in the next couple of days or so.
I'll let you know when they've replied. Thanks again.

Post by **NafemanNathan** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 7:49 pm

Yeah, you're fine to drive without them mate. I drove my 5th gen without a grill (so a much bigger area of radiator exposed) for ages when I first got it. I have pretty nasty roads around me as well, but the car was fine.

Post by **simonc** » Tue Nov 18, 2014 1:10 am

Ta guys, seems as though it may look crap for a while they're being done but no need for yards of duct tape all over the front.
Just what I wanted to hear, thanks so much.

Post by **simonc** » Tue Nov 18, 2014 9:16 am

Bad news I'm afraid guys. Ashford Chroming don't do plastic parts, only metals.The lady who I spoke to was very helpful and most apologetic as apparently a lot of requests do come their way for plastic chroming.
Bummer.
Oh dear, looks like a global search is now on.

Post by **Merlin** » Tue Nov 18, 2014 9:23 am

@Vanzep Do you still have those chrome nostrils?

JDM-BB4 · Post by **JDM-BB4** » Tue Nov 18, 2014 11:09 am

What about that chrome effect spray paint?
I've never used it so can't say how it looks but might be worth a try.

Post by **RattyMcClelland** » Tue Nov 18, 2014 11:24 am

Why chrome? Looks utter gash in my opinion.

Post by **Donald** » Tue Nov 18, 2014 11:27 am

Nickel is much sexier

black nickel.

I'm familiar with the process but never plated plastics (or have the gear), else I'd give it a go for you