I found a very easy way to make a bug screen to place in front of the radiator.

Went to Lowe's and bought a household air conditioner filter that contained a black, plastic grate supporting the filter element. Removed filter material from plastic grate. Covered grate with black screen and attached with zip ties. Attached to front of radiator with additional zip ties.

Since it's all black it blends nicely with front appearance of truck. Looks very nice and I'm thoroughly happy with the results. All materials for under $20. Have pics if anyone's interested.

 

i would like to see pics pls

 

Moderator...I just realized I started this post under "engine and drivetrain". Please accept my apologies.

 

Here's a pic of the screen.

 

Moving here for more exposure.

Nice looking install BTW. ;D

 

Good job, but be aware that in the summer, towing uphill in warm weather, screen really cuts down airflow.

 

Hmmm.. Good idea! I was gonna try to use a regular household screen but your idea seems better. And if it cuts down on the air flow, you can remove it easily for better cooling....

 

The AC frame is a great idea. What about finding a more coarse screen material so as not to cut down too much on air flow?

Anyone have any ideas?

 

The screen material comes in a few different sizes, as far as hole size. (2, I believe)

You can also just get the window screen frame kit from Lowes and cut to fit in your ram. It comes with the corners, and you just cut the stock to make the dimensions to your needs...

Mine is 37 3/4 x 18 3/4. Fits great!

I have not experienced any hotter temps with it in place while towing, in the summer, up the hills.

 

I use regular aluminum window screen (not plastic nor glass). Does not stop the air flow nearly as much as bugs do, and summer time is when they are thick. I've pulled coast to coast with the screen on and have never had a problem with heat. Up to 8%, 8 mile long grades and up to 14,000 feet high.

In my '98.5 you don't need to use ties to hold the screen in place - it just sits in there and can't go anywhere. Makes it real easy to take out and clean. I went to Lowe's and got the hardware just like I was going to make an aluminum window screen. Cut the frame to size, put it together and 'rolled' the screen on. $12.00 ;D

Stan

 

Ramflasher,
You must have posted while I was typing.

Stan

 

Good to hear that air flow is not restricted. That was a concern of mine.

I looked for a pre-made screen with frame at Lowe's but they didn't have anything in the right size.

 

[quote author=Gunship Guy link=board=7;threadid=19375;start=0#msg182540 date=1063126518]
I looked for a pre-made screen with frame at Lowe's but they didn't have anything in the right size.
[/quote]

Don't get a "pre-made" screen. Get a screen kit. Cut the frame to the size you want it.