AC compressor shield...remove for judging?

[Gary H.]

I am using a bolt on AC compressor shield that blocks any oil kickup from going on the fiberglass hood when the clutch engages.

Do I need to remove this for judging? I am driving the car up (225-250 miles so I guess I would need to remove it before I get there if it can not stay on the car.

Gary

[Michael W.]

Re: AC compressor shield...remove for judging?

You don't NEED to do anything, but to avoid a possible deduction- even then it might be one or two points- it should not be there. Why not remove it once you've arrived on site?

[Clark K.]

Re: AC compressor shield...remove for judging?

Gary, what you may be worried about is the operations part of Flight judging, when you will need to show that the A/C works, by turning it on with the engine running. That small amount of time, with the hood open, would not, in my opinion, be cause for concern to your hood. Fortunately, the shield is very easy to remove and reinstall, later. Just be sure to put it back on before you leave the meet. I have that sheet metal shield on my rare L76 A/C '65 Coupe and this shield can drive the purists nuts. But, I believe the hype (?) that the shield can save the hood paint. -Clark

[Russ S.]

Re: AC compressor shield...remove for judging?

Gary, what you may be worried about is the operations part of Flight judging, when you will need to show that the A/C works, by turning it on with the engine running. That small amount of time, with the hood open, would not, in my opinion, be cause for concern to your hood. Fortunately, the shield is very easy to remove and reinstall, later. Just be sure to put it back on before you leave the meet. I have that sheet metal shield on my rare L76 A/C '65 Coupe and this shield can drive the purists nuts. But, I believe the hype (?) that the shield can save the hood paint. -Clark

If I were judging it, there would be no deduction on operations but would be on flight judging. It doesn't affect the way the compressor operates.