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Today I worked on making a template to protect the condenser and radiator (C&R) from stone damage that may get through the grille openings.
I removed the top cover over the C&R, front-under the hood, (9 pushpins). Then: removed the front-bottom cover under the C&R. (a bunch of 10mm hex screws)
Next: removed the 2nd cover behind bottom cover. (push-in fittings)
Made template 18” high x 28” wide, which covers almost 100% of the Condenser.
The template slips up from under the front of the NX between the square aluminum and curved aluminum bumper brace. (photo)
It took me quite a few hours to disassemble, cut & fit a template and replace the three covers. I only have one pushpin left over.
But I am pleased that I could even make & fit a template.
I don’t think this is an easy job, one that I, or maybe others might attempt to do. Would it be worth the effort ?
So - I’ll revisit Club Lexus "condenser damage" by stones threads. I want to review how often and what is the probability of this damage occurring.
A few members have reported condenser stone damage and stated that it is not covered under warranty, that it is considered a road hazard.
One members dealer condenser replacement cost was $2,855. this year.
Today I made a point of observing the grille openings on other SUV’s.
My wife’s Tucson grille openings are 1 1/4” x 2 1/4” - My neighbors Lexus LX600 openings are 1” x 4”
Our NX grille openings are really in the ballpark of these others: Our upper rows are 3/4” x 3” , the bottom row of 18 openings are 1 1/4” x 2”
If considering condenser protection, details to ponder:
What type of screen material to use?
Some spacers to maintain gap between screen and the condenser.
How to attach and secure screen?
Um, what about possibility of drastically decreasing cooling for the 'patient' per say, the rad and AC condenser are built and designed to see certain amount of air flow through grill and around various engine components. You will also reduce the affectiveness of your cabin hvac system too. Your rad and condenser will always run on hotter side, and in warm weather may overheat.
I know this is a template but I wouldn't want to block things too much with a dense screen.
Condenser Stone Damage & Template
