Here's a preview of the ApexRaceParts GT4 style duct kit
Design:
The Carbon ducts were white light scanned and then modifications were made to the CAD profile before producing a prototype with a 3D printer. A mold was created using that sample pair to produce the ducts from ABS plastic.
Improvement:
These ABS ducts have been modified to include a thicker ring where the hose connects. The carbon ducts are only 2.75" OD and not a true 3" connection. The added ring results in a tighter more secure fit. It helps prevent hoses from sliding off, or hose clams from crushing the tube if tightened too hard.
Weight:
The original carbon ducts are 0.8 ounces each. The new ABS ducts are 1.6 ounces each. This is such a low weight, that the benefits of carbon fiber weight savings on such a small part is negligible in addition to costly.
Final Product:
8 months ago the first batch was produced, but with an incorrect plastic mix, which resulted in a very rubbery part. The pictures below are of the final product made from the correct material. This plastic remains ridged at high temperatures, yet has enough flexibility to handle abuse. The black finish shown below is the natural black finish of the plastic. No paint or other finish will be applied as this is a race part, in a hard to see area of the car.
Backing Plates:
Backing plates are still in production with no sneak-peak photos available. They are being developed in multiple sizes to work with both an OEM brakes, and for vehicles with a BBK. Complete kits with ducts, hoses, backing plates, and mounting hardware will be available.
Your input:
Since these kits were developed for track enthusiasts on a budget, and not everyone runs the same vehicle setup, please vote in the poll above to let us know how you would want to use this kit.
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Carbon Fiber vs. ApexRaceParts duct
