G'day all,
I'm just wondering if anyone can shed some light on my question.
My daughter's 69 Bug is fitted with one of those 'Carerra' type F/G body kits and it has a smick looking whale tail on the rear end. Do these actually aid cooling in any way or are they purely for cosmetic looks only?
The tail has these large holes in the upper surface that let in not only air...but also water when it rains...is this a bad thing?
Cheers
Gazza

Hey Gazza,
Like any rear wing spoiler they don't do a thing unless you've got some schmick powerful motor that hurtles your car along at the speed of light, It's just there to look pretty. I wouldn't worry too much about the water getting in if you're driving it often, late decklids have vents that also let water in, and when i had decklid stand offs the water would go in also, never had a problem.

It is the whale tail that DONT have holes on the top that are useless

The V Force guys swear by them - but they have some hi po Porsche beeting cars

The water wont hurt too much as long as it's not actually pouring all over your engine, the holes in the tail should be a bit rearward of the engine and electricals. Also make sure there's somewhere for it to get out (maybe a small gap in the seal at the bottom) or you will also have rust to contend with, especially if the car doesn't get used regularly.
The factory engine lid with vents has a water trap on the inside of the lid that directed water away and kept the engine and electricals DRY. Although these days your lucky to see these installed.

A whale tail will drop engine oil temps by around 15 deg C (on a performance motor). I used one for supersprints, and although I think it is ugly they work

A decent one also helps with stability on track days

Not that my car is fast enough - but this is what Dieter tells me

great for holding stubby or can while working too

Quote:

Originally posted by philsmanx great for holding stubby or can while working too

I have the whale tail on mine.. and i cant comment on the cooling side as my engine is running hot due to timing/tuning mines vented and before all the timing went to pox it always kept the engine nice and cool, and yes very handy for leaving a drink on.. or in my case atm spreading out wiring diagrams

iv got a big one on mine with pretty large vents in it up here with all the rain we get i dont have any trouble, i just use the electrical grease on the coil and alternator every now and then, and spray a bit of soft seal around to keep everything else happy