DEBUNKING C8 HTC CLEAR ENGINE COVER CONCERNS ~ TEST DATA PROOF - IT'S OK!

[@RickCorvetteConti]

HEY GUYS, just a quick note, when I showed the suppliers where to buy the covers...I posted wrong site for one good company. Looking for the clear HTC engine bay cover, also consider amtcustomdesigns.com Sorry AMT and thank-you audience for support of the people I suggest for you!

[@everjeff]

I agree on the chip. I would do the minimal as possible with a good paint shop and most everyone would never even know. Glad to hear about the testing for the clear cover.

[@SteveWille]

I still think Chuck’s skepticism is still warranted. There are two ways heat is transmitted from a hot object (the engine) to a cold object (the headliner): (1) via heated air (which the clear cover can readily block if properly sealed with perimeter rubber) and (2) via infrared radiation (which the a clear cover may not block from the headliner depending on the characteristics of the clear material… think of how the sun can warm you up through a window even on a cold day or how a leather dash can be damaged by sun through the clear windshield).

[@johnk7609]

The way to put any questions to rest is to drive the Corvette convertible at normal operating temperature for 30 minutes or so, with the top down, then put the top in Service Mode and take multiple temperature readings of the top headliner at three or more different locations and mark the locations. Then, install the clear engine cover, and repeat, taking temperature readings at the same previous locations. Compare each temperature reading. This will tell us if there is any difference with the amount of heat that each covers allows to penetrate into the hard top.

[@RadioguyJ]

Thanks, Rick, for including my C8 in memory of my son, Caleb. I appreciate you.

[@RickCorvetteConti]

More to come in viewer mail segment soon, touching..

[@margaretmesacortez2421]

OMG RICK!!!! Thank you for answering my question AND put the pictures up of my plate and Phil's car!!! You're wonderful!!

[@CarlosFernandez-gh2vk]

Regarding the chip, I would try the touch up paint option. No one will know it’s there. He could also wrap the nacelles in carbon black vinyl. Orange with the black nacelles looks really good. Either way, I feel the guys pain. That first scratch always hurts the most.

[@dennishayes7370]

Maybe a black wrap over the nacelles, if the touch up color is too far off?

[@robertjakicic5878]

Chuck was pretty wise to question the clear engine cover and now the all the questions have been answered

[@benschmidt5006]

Glad to hear about the testing and lack of heat issues in the field, now my only question is how difficult is it to keep clean on engine side. Interested in feedback from users in the field how often to you need to remove and clean under side facing engine?

[@marcboeckl7580]

GM is offering an Engine Appearance package for the convertible for 2024 - it includes a clear engine cover. Their engineers are obviously not concerned about the heat issue if they are making it an option.

[@kpv123]

But it's a lot smaller, the viewing area that is. I think they're taking more precautions for the Heat

[@jasonray9568]

So, thank you for the clear cover update. I think I’ll wait for the next version before I buy. Great video, as usual!!!!!

[@Vette4life]

Fill it. Touch it up and then wrap the them black

[@KVette-tp5ft]

Great tech Tuesday. You two are a great asset to the Coughlin franchise.....I hope they know that. Keep up the informative and entertaining uploads. I have and will continue to travel 100 miles to get my C8 serviced by Chuck and Nate. To get a corvette delivered by Rick is priceless.

[@margaretmesacortez2421]

One day that will be me Rick!!

[@daleh7733]

Big 10-4!

[@devinjackson2373]

I had to change my battery on my C6 over the weekend and I had the window issue. Now I know how to fix it, THANKS!!!!

[@RickCorvetteConti]

AWESOME, thanks for watching...a little something for everyone

[@kerry_glock]

Isn’t Tech Tuesday with Rick & Chuck (sometimes Nate) Great! I look forward to it so much!

[@margaretmesacortez2421]

Me too!!

[@arlieriefer9612]

The engine compartment on an HTC is air cooled from the two Vents on the side with fans that blow air in the side and out the back!

[@AFVetteran]

Always great information. Glad I can watch these older Tech Tuesdays and learn before I finally can fulfill my dream of. owning a Corvette.

[@michaelmanley8046]

Chucky! you brought concern! I want a clear top for my coup! Love the show thank you Rick and Chuck! 😀

[@ervanrodgers1875]

Great segment! I've been thinking of getting the clear engine cover... Thanks for having a real conversation!

[@kpv123]

The original cover, with its reflective heat shield, is definitely going to provide better protection for the hood liner. No question about it. The issue is whether or not having the clear cover will enable damage to the headliner, and there hasn't been any adequate testing available to the customer to help us reach that conclusion

[@larrynewberry3500]

Thanks guys. Great job as usual. Paragon does a great job with customer service. Always get quick replies when I ask guestions on products on KZbin. 👍👍

[@darreneutsler4377]

Thanks for this Tech Tuesday with continued talk on the clear engine cover. Thanks to Cory also for the technical support. I'm leaving my cover on! Thanks guys! So many compliments!

[@EddieV925]

Rick I ordered my c8 today. Awesome feeling. Can’t wait.

[@EddieV925]

Chucks the best. I agree with him. Something you had to look at.

[@seiyakawashima]

I know how Bob has been feeling. I use my 2022 C8 Stingray for race track events and will use it for competitions but yes, I can already see some minor chips on the car. Great update on the clear engine cover. Keep up the great work!

[@rogerpullin8997]

I think I have learned (I am still a corvette virgin) from this and other “tech tuesdays” these cars are just a little too needy for me, thanks Rick and Chuck.

[@adrianleusink1970]

A little too needy? Lol. These cars are nearly bulletproof. Tech Tuesday is for those who want ALL information vs those who need a pat on the head.

[@salalbanese5537]

Thanks for the window indexing info, when I have to replace the battery, I know what to do now.

[@keithgaines1383]

I replaced the screws that hold down the factory cover with magnets. Now I park my HTC at the car show, pop the factory cover off, and "bingo" exposed engine compartment!

[@jimhineman8695]

Great conversation today guys! 😀👍

[@adrianleusink1970]

I think this is a great dialogue on the transparent engine cover. GM obviously designed some overkill into the factory cover, while the Paragon clear cover they sell is very desireable. I want one. Learning this info is critical for me. Great video and thanks to Rick & Chuck and to Paragon for this transparent dialogue and analysis.

[@SocalGT]

Hi Rick. If you move the ‘my beautiful rides & customer send off’s’ to your shorts channel it would greatly expand the amount of questions you and Chuck could answer on Tech Tuesday. Just a thought from a loyal subscriber.

[@Maximum1A]

I agree, Bob should find a highly rated paint shop. Any shop worth its salt can apply body filler and touch up the paint because it’s such a some area. Like to know where Bob got his hat!

[@davidopalecky7318]

Another great show! Thanks Rick and Chuck. Always great information.😃

[@jackdale9249]

in our extensive experience w/ Ferrari - remember GM bought , used TWo Ferrari 458 ENGINES to develop, DESIGN the C-8 car engine ! ( and the sometimes traditional wonky Italian electrics ) we have been HIGHLY impressed w/ replacing all the SLI ( Starter Lights Ignition ) batteries w/ Anti-gravity Lithium batteries ( usu group 47 or group 48 ) they are OMG expensive $700-1,000 BUT have huge advantages over trad lead acid ( and are very safe -they just had to make simple changes to cell chemistry ) they have a higher resting voltage , the cars start faster , charge faster, alternators last longer lithium amps are mighty ! they discharge faster , THE CAR will RUN BETTER ! also they offer greaT $35 BLUETOOTH BATTERY MONITOR ! + YOU LOSE ABOUT 50 pounds ! IT ONLY WEIGHS 14-18 lBS ! they also have built in emergency jump starting -acessable w/ one of two supplied remote controls ( do not leave both of them IN the car ! ) anyway what type of main, SLI battery is in the C-8 ? Antigravity H6/Group-48 Lithium Car Battery ???? $719.99 - $1,049.99 H6/Group 48 OEM Automotive Case size (directly replace stock battery). LxWxH: 10.75 x 7 x 7.5 inches. Amp Hour Options: 24 Ah, 40 Ah, or 60 Ah. High Power: 24Ah=1000CA, 40Ah=1500CA, 60Ah=1800 Cranking Amps. Exclusive RE-START Technology: Wireless Jump-Starting built-in; just press the button on your Keyfob remote. Complete Battery Management System built-in. Ultra Lightweight: Drop up to 40 lbs instantly! 70% lighter than lead. Safest Battery Technology using full BMS and Lifepo4 Lithium chemistry. Antigravity Batteries www.antigravitybatteries.com Lightweight Lithium BATTERIES - Antigravity Lithium Car Batteries are the first & only battery with Wireless Jump-Starting. Antigravity Batteries has changed the game again with our latest Lithium-Ion Car Batteries. Award-Winning products. Live Chat with our Techs. Ultra lightweight. Most Powerful.

[@redstingraycorvette]

The insulation that is installed on the OEM part is there for a reason distribution of heat into the area where they don’t want It to go it’s that simple.

[@johnchambers772]

Tech Tuesdays rule. Thanks Rick

[@edletzring6153]

Greetings Rick & Chuck,. Ed from san Diego CA here. Thanks for your "corvettetechtuesday " shows. Great info and very entertaining as well. Have a 2020 C-8 2lt HTC. One issue I have that's a continuous aggravation is the "RAP" function when the car is shut off. I appreciate that it will shut off all the electric power after 10 minutes if I leave the trunk , frunk or doors open but some times i would like to listen to the radio or continue using the phone with out pushing the "Start/Stop" button every 9 minuths

[@msowerby]

Agree with the other comments to touch up the chip/sand…maybe wrap the nacelles/roof afterwards in CF. Great follow up with Korey at Paragon about the clear covers…presenting all the facts so folks can make their decisions. Always feels great to be featured on a beautiful rides segment 🙏🙏🙏

[@babeadams9351]

It's just not worth the possibility of potential repercussions. I was amazed how much heat comes through the trunk much less up through a hunk of plastic

[@kungfupanda1334]

Love Paragon products! They have a bunch of my money...lol.

[@RickCorvetteConti]

Thanks for watching they do have some nice stuff

[@peterreynolds8146]

Looking forward to a Conti “Down Under” RHD Special ? Pricing & Australian Specs when you need to escape USA winter.

[@artbaer3122]

Congratulations to Don in NJ for his first Vette!! Oh, by the way, great Tech Tuesday as usual.

[@LICCG]

I would wrap the nacelles with black , orange with black nacelles is one of the best looks

[@joetrippi1603]

How I ordered mine

[@clintonjohnson9437]

Hi Rick, I don't have a convertible c8 but, my rear trunk lid would hit my lift, I used a foam tape with a few layers on it to pad the lift from any accidents. I enjoy your content. Clint

[@edletzring6153]

Greetings Rick & Chuck,. Ed from san Diego CA here. Thanks for your "corvettetechtuesday " shows. Great info and very entertaining as well. Have a 2020 C-8 2lt HTC. (Very happy), One issue I have that's a continuous aggravation is the "RAP" function when the car is shut off. I appreciate that it will shut off all the electric power consumption after 10 minutes if I leave the trunk , frunk or doors open but some times i would like to listen to the radio or continue using the phone with out having to pushing the "Start/Stop" button every 9 minutes. Can I disable it temporally or change the auto shut down time. Thanks, you guys are the best. By the way I'm turning 80 in December and the C-8 is my 8th Corvette. I 've loved them all, but the C-8 is "incredible"! Ed Letzring

[@warrenchin6402]

Great show, 🎉 thank you for sharing. My question: When replacing a still working battery near it’s expiration date and installing a new battery in the 2023 C8 LT3 convertible : what are the exact steps to follow to avoid screwing-up all the computers in the car?????

[@RomeoJohnsonTV]

As I commented in your previous video, I have a 2021 C8 htc, I purchased a clear engine bay cover and after 2 months it has multiple cracks right around the bolts. I live in Las Vegas but other than the travel time, the car is Garaged always. I will be reaching out to the company I purchased from to see how they'll handle this. I'll keep you in formed.

[@Peltrah]

Where did you purchase yours?

[@biffbifford402]

I honestly don’t get the draw or even the obsession of having the ability to look at a plastic engine cover on the C8. The Z06 may be a bit different.

[@johns5876]

I bought one of the 1st clear tops when it first came available from RapidRev. No problems so far. I would put the OEM back on if I were to track it. I’m not worried about the clear plastic with high heat….I’d be more worried about my paint, but daily driving won’t have much an impact. I think I saw someone with an IR gun and its up to 50degrees hotter… not a big deal.

[@redbird444]

I concluded this shortly after getting one and doing my own testing weeks ago.

[@margaretmesacortez2421]

Love the red shirt Rick!

[@Vetteman372]

Good show Rick and Chuck

[@philsalley3278]

Today, paint color matching, especially on sold colors is not a problem but touch up, then wrap top, nacelles, A pillar would probably cost less and make the car look a lot better.

[@adrianleusink1970]

The spot touch up in that location should be near invisible. On an edge like that it allows you to build some filler material and the light won't catch that repainted spot like it would do on an open panel area

[@johnr7794]

I would much rather drive our 2023 3LT HTC than have another thing to clean on it so people can see the engine compartment. Lowering the rear window to fully enjoy the sound of the exhaust without hearing the mechanical noise of the engine is another plus. Did I mention having trunk space on a trip even with the top down?

[@thomasangelo4219]

Is really helpful information thanks guys

[@tomfaltash9634]

I would do the same Rick. Fill and sand smooth the brush touch.

[@dennishayes7370]

To be clear then, does Chuck still have any concerns with the transparent cover?

[@victorcolonjr3364]

Good eveningday Rick I hope all is well with you looking forward to some great contact

[@bluehornet]

I didn't know if it did or not, but I had hoped it had a sensor to stop the HTC before it hit something.

[@jameswalton8927]

buy the color match and blend it in..you might have to sand a bit as well...or some good painters can mask off the area and take a small spray gun and blend it in. I had a spot on my c7 and the guy did a great job on the chip.

[@colleensowerby4180]

Great show again - like that beautiful C7 at the end😮

[@mattwieschorster839]

Rick thank you and Chuck again for a very informative video im sorry but im still on the fence about the clear cover lasting for more than a few years

[@chriscrowell6678]

yes on the paint / what you said rick, a quick hit it with the compound and polish after and you wont be able to find the repair afterwards ( provided the person doing it is good )

[@marcg1964]

I think most people will believe there's an engine under the OEM black cover. So, no need to prove it with a transparent cover. Love my 2020 C8, but don't get the car show deal. I don't need to show off my car to a bunch of strangers. That's just me.

[@markcattell8793]

Hi Rick. I have a 2021 C8 Getting ready to get my free oil change. I can't remember what else to get done to do with transmission. Can you remind me? Thank you!

[@margaretmesacortez2421]

Chuck: "Thank you! I'm here every Tuesday! Try the veal!" Lol

[@DL-lz6pj]

Thanks Chuck and Rick.

[@kerry_glock]

I’m afraid that the HTC doesn’t have a lot of ventilation to begin with. Anything more and you’re looking for trouble. Unless I missed part of the Corvette Tent Information on basically a lot of modifications, you can void your warranty. Does that apply to aftermarket exhaust? I was thinking about doing the exhaust mod, but I don’t want to void the warranty. I believe I saw the “Mild to Wild” device will void the warranty? Plus, I’m seeing some comments that the “Mild to Wild” doesn’t work on C8s, but they know that and continue to sell the product! Any help on these issues? Thanks

[@55Mrcry]

The one mentioned on FB that cracked wasn't due to over torque, it was due to heat expansion and it cracks at the weakest point. Also, the OEM cover uses a rubber seal around the perimeter, the clear cover does not ... All as stated in the phone call. .

[@slalommandergeneric2688]

OK, so the heat will probably not affect the clear cover, got it. But the real concern is does the cover allow more heat to get the the top? How much more? Is that a problem? Will it melt your fancy coating or your PPF?? ???. The other question is, how dirty does the underside of the cover get? the complaint about the coop is how dirty they get. A dirty clear cover won't look very nice either. All that said, I'll get one for my Z06 HTC and show off that engine....... when I get it. Thanks Rick and Chuck. 😁

[@Vetteman372]

yes on the paint

[@thomaslanger6504]

Will the clear top work with the htc Z06?

[@RickCorvetteConti]

should...may have to be tweaked just a bit I am sure, so don't order one now, wait..

[@AutoNeurotics]

Tough call on brush touching that area. Believe it or not that is a three stage color just like Red Mist. The base is a very bright orange then the mid coat is a very transparent red candy like color. They may be able to mix it in a two stage but the color won’t have the depth. It’s a very small area but very visible worth a shot if it doesn’t look right then you can always go to the next step.

[@ImportDomestic2006]

I don’t know if anybody’s thought about this but has Chuck noticed a difference when it comes to cooling the engine between the convertible and the targa top. Is there any obvious differences with the cooling system. As you know Rick we have a 2014 Corvette stingray and I have a 2006 Pontiac GTO which has an LS2 6.0L borrowed from the C6 Corvette. I’ve noticed both cars like running hot between 190° and 220° seems to be the normal heat operation of the engine block. What is the normal operation of a convertible C8 and a targa top C8?

[@memoalonso3317]

Great video. On the clear -super thermal shield- after market product, is thee a possibility to ask GM about it? And get a confirmation it will not invalidate any warranty points with the car in regards to items that otherwise are being protected by the GM designed shield.

[@cn3dagain819]

I'm sorry, but right now I'm going to take the CANDID and legitimate concern of a highly trained and qualified Corvette technician over someone trying to sell me a way over priced piece of plastic. If General Motors offered this as an option or accessory I'd probably get one. But they don't. I wonder why?? The investment in the car is too high to take a chance. And to get replacement parts because of heat damage would be a nightmare. Just my opinion.

[@loricerer1876]

I worry about car warranty will it be voided if something on the car goes bad?

[@BigOsTaco]

Is there a reason why the video was censored at the 12:19 mark? I think they were pictures of the engine with the clear cover installed? What’s going on? I want you to be “transparent” please thanks. Love this channel.

[@joelbell9082]

Hey Rick it's Joel Bell we spoke in a few turns before about Corvettes but I wanted to get the mechanic that you always have conversations with I have a Ford van I know it's not a subject that you normally discuss I just spent $900 on the truck and an oil change everything was fine but the weather was getting cooler in South Florida so I thought I'd have the antifreeze changed they use such high suction pressure and such high positive pressure to push in the new antifreeze that they blew the head gaskets on my truck now I can't go to the VA to check on my cancer and I just wanted to know could have been the cause because the engine was running fine before that like I mentioned earlier I know this isn't a subject that you normally discuss but I can't do anything about it right now I can't even drive the truck I probably would have to junk it because it sounds like the bearings in the motor a very after getting home and starting it up the next day try and see if I can arrange with the VA for transportation to check on my cancer US Vet 1966 to 1968 I just want to know if it was possible that they damage the engine cuz it ran perfectly before the oil is milky white so I know it's a blown head I checked the oil before I even left to go there and it was perfectly fine

[@HParker12345]

Can a front lift kit be added to a 2022, 2lt Z51 that didn’t have it on the original build.

[@markhillyer721]

The C5 lets you read codes in the DIC, does the feature still exist on the newer models?

[@italianiceshoppetheultimat4914]

He could wrap it like the Carbon Flash-painted nacelles as a option....will change the look but could always able to change it back if he change his mind.

[@georgek719]

Advice to Margaret and Phil, who do not know how to open the door from the inside if they lose power. RTFM

[@bobsappjr]

Will this clear engine cover work on a or with the engine stack chrome engine cover?

[@OMEGATECH]

On the HTC once you get your clearcover what do you do about the engine as far as an appearance package, would that be available through Chevy or is that something you have to get on your own, for example the engine cover LED lights Etc?. Just curious.

[@plainviewfarms6364]

Rick I got a quick question for you……. Bought a 2015 C7 Z51 recently, having issues with the memory seats recalling at engine start up correctly. Searched online and others have experienced same situation, was there ever a recall or fix for this?

[@RickCorvetteConti]

will save this for next week if ok.....easy one (wink) thanks for watching

[@plainviewfarms6364]

I’ll be sure to tune in………..

[@margaretmesacortez2421]

Hi Rick and Chuck!!! I'm first again!

[@daleh7733]

Dang, I'm a day late again! (at #522 lol).

[@kenrosemann6996]

I would be less concerned about damaging the clear engine cover, and more concerned about what any differences in heat transmissivity may have on the vehicle itself. Does it somehow cause more heat to be reflected back into the engine bay itself versus GM design? Does it allow more heat to reach the roof? Really would need to instrument various places above and below the clear cover and the GM original design cover and see what the differences are (if any). Bottom line, if put this on and had any issues, suspect GM is going to say that the warranty would be voided (even if the cover really didn't perform any differently from GM's original cover). Likely not an issue, but just because the clear cover can withstand the heat, doesn't mean the clear cover is not impacting heat elsewhere in the engine bay and/or roof when retracted. If I only had a Z06 HTC to have to worry about this issue 🙂

[@vividpsychosis8222]

Rick can you please please please do a tech guide on how to stop Creaking on the HTC? I have a 2022 C8 HTC with 6k miles and behind my head/shoulder whenever i am going 40 or under, mostly going slower speeds under 20, when I hit bumps or whatever and the car flexes, I get a creak or noise from my HTC... Its driving me batty. Please help! *Side note* I have already used dialectical grease on everything seal related and the back window, didnt help =( so that isnt it.

[@RickCorvetteConti]

We have a few times in fact - moldings most likely need to be cleaned and treated - another one on that soon Try viewing this one we discuss it here again m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/hWWbeKFujLykaLc

[@Fly-nf1hq]

wrap it black

[@StraussNDaHouse]

Will they have this available for the C8 Z06

[@mobility63]

Have the the cells wrapped in metallic black

[@marct9360]

Heat degradation of the interior top cover is not something that's going to happen in a few months. It will happen over time and mileage. Just look at what happens to the interiors of cars that sit outside a lot in the summertime. Over time the dashes crack, the hard plastics fade, and the leather gets brittle. And that happens at temperatures much lower than in the engine compartment. I think the important question is which has been asked several times today is will this void any warranty on the interior of the top. And for the dedicated show car person who is going to take this clear cover off to clean it before they show their car, then what is the difference between that and just taking off the OEM cover for the show?

[@stephenr115]

What is the height as I’ve always been afraid to raise top inside garage????

[@nikolaspushkin7325]

Please update the video once the revision is out!

[@Walt1960]

Hey Guy’s

[@philsalley3278]

Did I miss where the possibility of heat damage to the retractable top was answered? Seems like a potentially big problem.

[@edstingray3828]

check the glove box isn't closed tight. Our club has had several of these. Glove box on every one.

[@joelbell9082]

Only time will tell if that clear cover for the engine Honda hardtop convertible will warp parts of the body I'm running tomorrow mechanical overheating problems