Airflow around engine - question

[greg356a]

The engine is back in and before I do too much more, I wondered how much air flow should be allowed around the top part of the engine? Should it be almost completely sealed from air flow underneath? Obviously need to keep the dirt out and keep the carbs warm, but should there be sealing gaskets etc. or will small gaps be OK?

I can fabricate some aluminium panels to match up to the original tinware. I will need to allow space for the movement of the engine so maybe a large gasket to seal up to existing tin ware



Down the sides there are some big gaps


At the back of the engine there are very large open spaces


appreciate any thoughts

[Sam]

Yes - seal it totally, otherwise all the heat from the cylinders and exhaust just rises up into the engine bay and cooling efficiency is lost, as is power. It will also get massively mucky in there off the back wheels when you do awesome skids.

[Hebster52]

Yes, as Sam says it should be sealed totally from the underside.