So i took off my airguide or what's left of it - i might patch it up with staples/ductape - been driving around without... so just wondering if any downsides to this?

I was specifically told of one of the problems mentioned by KlausC, that being disruption of radiator air parterns. Was told by an Indy that it could cause higher operating temperatures.

When I went to the Volvo dealer, they wanted someting over $125 for a new one. I negotiated with them and they agreed to $86, which I took. I always try to negotiate with them, and they usually reduce the price by as much as 25%.

The only down side is driving in the wet or with the AC on. Water splashing up on the timing belt is not good or it might cause the serpentine belt to slip.
It also disrupts the flow of air through the radiator, or the volume of air that should go through at speed.

Klaus
--
(V♂LV♂s 1975 164, 1995 854T, 1998 V70R)

So i patched up my airguide with duct-tape would you believe and screwed/clipped it back on.

Weird thing is: Without airguide i thought rides were more quiet but i figured i was mistaken - but i made a point to note the difference after putting it back on and sure enough for some reason road noise seems louder with it on than with it off.

Anything i can do to reduce this? like carpet cushioning? narrower tires?

I may be mistaken, but the guide might be reflecting noise back in that would otherwise escape to the great wide open, at least until you wound her up to Mach 1 -- which I saw once while driving through Houston. Just think of it like this... if the guide is keeping the noise in, what's it keeping away from your all aluminum engine. :)

-Luke Gabbard
--

Buy your airguide at fcpgrotn.com (nice savings):
http://www.fcpgroton.com/volvo850other.htm (last one on the page).
--
1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon. My cars have been running so well lately they've got me worried.

There's at least one sensor, maybe two just on the other side of the air guide. I just can't remember what it's called.
--
Wallie

Yes, there's actually a sensor that is pushed through it on the passenger's side. It's the outside, or ambient temperature sensor...which registers on your dash.
--
1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon. My cars have been running so well lately they've got me worried.