What's this 411 S5 part?

[Thor]

I am a bit annoyed about this because I feel sure I have seen these on a partially dismantled Bristol before. It's a guess, but are they flaps which allow air to pass through the fan cowling when the fans are not running but close up and seal the cowling to force more air through the radiator when the fans are running ?

[Kevin H]

Originally Posted by Thor

It's a guess, but are they flaps which allow air to pass through the fan cowling when the fans are not running but close up and seal the cowling to force more air through the radiator when the fans are running ?

No, sorry, that's not it. Does such a thing even exist?

I believe the part is common to all 411 series, but I think (not 100% sure) that it is unique to the 411.

[Thor]

Yes, such things do exist on some cars, and Bristol being brilliant aerodynamic experts (!) might well have added such a brilliant feature !!!

[Thor]

Well in that case are they for a similar purpose but acting as sort of non-return valves in the cabin ventilation outlets which eject air through the body-side vents towards the rear of the 411 bodywork on each side ???

[peter dowdle]

Will the answer be under our Christmas tree Christmas Day ?

[Kevin H]

Thor is correct. There is one on each side on a 411 behind those little vents in the rear wings. However they must allow air in rather than out.


PS/Edit: Actually I think it is the other way around. I think they allow air out rather than in.