I'd like to remove the plastic engine cover from my 2004 jaguar XJR.
I think the engine looks alot better without it.
Is there a reason to keep it on?
Is there a purpose it serves other than looks?
Thxs!

 

Lots of discussion on this topic if you do a search.

Some say the engine/supercharger is noisier without it. I do not hear any difference.

Some say it helps keep the engine cooler when the car is stationary and you get heat build up under the hood.

I believe I get better cooling without it when the car is moving. Plus I have additional cooling fans.

 

When I bought our XJ8 it was missing the top plastic engine cover, and don't know how long before that it was missing. I've driven it over 20,000 miles in the last two years with no ill effects.

I don't have plans on putting one on there as I think they look rather cheesy myself. I took a cover off of one of our last cars too, for the same reason.

 

I remember when actual engine parts were COOL to look at.
People would chrome the carb or alternator and polish other parts.

I guess we should just hide the evil ugly pollution-making internal combustion engine?????????

bob

 

Back in the 70's I made my 66 Mustang Fastback into a Shelby clone. More people wanted to see what was under the hood than what the body and interior look like. Nowadays the engine isn't much of a selling point, just make sure it has no unusual noises or leaks.