Miata Mailing List: June 1996, Message #29
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   From: Keith Tanner 
Subject: Windstop vs. "homebrew"
   Date: Sun, 2 Jun 1996 02:47:03 -0400

>>I and probably others would like to know how the Windstop comparies with
>>"homebrew" windblockers like the one featured on Keith's Page de Home
>>(http???).

Well, I've got lots of experience with the "homebrew" variety, but I've
never tried a Windstop (somebody bring one to Miata 96!).

First off - that URL is http://www.ottawa.net/~tanner/windblok.html -
there's a photo of the prototype on there as well.  The photo of the
Windstop on Miata.net is corrupt, unfortunately, but there used to be a
photo of a similar or identical device on Frank's page.

Mark's description of the Windblock at speed sounds pretty much like the way
my own design works.  Buffeting is reduced a little more with just my
windblocker in place, by the sounds of it - probably due to the plastic vs
mesh.  I did a fair bit of aerodynamic testing before I finalized my setup.
It still improves greatly with the windows up, however.  I didn't think it
was that effective alone until I removed it - there's a significant difference!

I'm not sure what the advantage of mesh would be - it seems that a
"reasonably unobstructed" rear view wouldn't be as good as an "unobstructed
rear view".  What am I missing?   The mesh won't scratch, that's for sure.
I've noticed from driving behind UMN members with my own design that you
can't see it at all on their cars (unless they put stickers on it).  I asume
you can raise the top with the Windstop in place?

The attachment method sounds pretty good.  I was trying to find a way to use
those holes for my design.  One disadvantage is that you can't lend your
Windstop out to a friend unless they want to mount the hardware to their car.

The way I see it:
Windstop: 
-looks like Mercedes
-no scratches
-fits in trunk
-folds flat on top of boot

Homebrew
-much less expensive
-possibly more effective with windows down (subjective)
-no hardware attached to car
-doesn't obstruct vision, more subtle looks
-top can be dropped with it sitting on the rear shelf
-great place to put club stickers :)

I'd still like to see one.  I've tried to make this as impartial as
possible, and I'm always improving my own design (approx 14 made so far).
If anyone want to lend me a Windstop for a while, I'll make a better
comparaison :)

Keith and Baby, who attracts lots of attention because of her windblocker.

_____________________

Page de Home:
http://www.ottawa.net/~tanner

Underground Miata Network:
http://www.ottawa.net/~tanner/umn
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