Tigers,
Just a few remarks about the "LAT" side vents discussed on this list.
1) They were never "LAT" side vents, not being offered by either dealer
options or distributor race prep LAT offerings to racing participants,
and were never assigned a LAT number. (See Dealer Options brochure as
well as Ian Garrad's SCCA Homogulation papers on TigersUnited.com)
2) They were put on a great many Rootes (England) Racing Department
prepared cars for European race and rally prepped cars at the Rootes
Factory Race Prep department, and can be seen in many European rally
films and pictures. A good many cars with this mod have been exhibited
in Tigers United and TE/AE concourse events, and many are very well
executed locally.
3) A cursory glance under the hood reveals that there is very little
choice as to where these can reasonable be placed. The sides of the
engine compartment are sheet metal panels that cover the wheel wells and
the dashboard. Except for ONE small triangular shaped exterior sheet
metal (per side) between these inner panels.
4) This is the only external fender area that can be cut and reach the
exterior of the car (except the hood), and has seamed edges from the
interior panels surrounding the edge. One could vent into the wheel
well, but doubt there is much room to duct to the outer fender without
tire interference.
5) This small exterior fender area is this one area that is penetrated
and edge finished for venting on the factory rallye/race versions, and
is not very large. It can be an appealing feature, for those that like
that look, though not very large. Look at the inside fender area to see
the size available. Difficult to imagine much flow.
6) Some cars may have had MAJOR body modifications made for a "look",
although what was done for tire clearance, interior clearance, or
functionality I do not know.
Well, a look under the hood ought to resolve this, anyway. If there is
anyone who has contrary documentary evidence, we can always display it
for the edification of the rest of us.
--
Steve Laifman
Editor
http://www.TigersUnited.com
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