Mesh Grill Inserts

[Umichigan1]

The functional appearance that stands out behind my Black Diamond grille has never appealed to me. Some enterprising companies offer mesh-style inserts for the various trim levels (although oddly, BD is not represented). I can appreciate the functional requirements of having clear air flow so overall I haven't gotten too worked up about it. Plus, the aforementioned grill inserts that are available have issues of their own that I'd prefer to avoid (install from the front, too restrictive to air flow, stupidly expensive).
So I came up with my own solution using a modified Gutter Guard (material: Black powdercoated aluminum). Cost: about $5. Time to modify and install: about 30 minutes. Tools required: tin snips, 2 self-tapping screws to anchor the mesh. Anyway, if there is any interest I'll post more information about the details. I'm attaching a picture.

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[Dadsquatch]

Looks great! Will be fun to get the bugs out though.

 

[Umichigan1]

Looks great! Will be fun to get the bugs out though.

I think it'll be alright. The mesh isn't too tight. For tougher bugs I'll use bug/tar remover and a little scrub.

 

[tock13]

Love it. After buying a set off Amazon and seeing how crappy they look in the grille I’m working on the same thing on my Big Bend grille. What did you screw into to anchor the mesh?

 

[Umichigan1]

Love it. After buying a set off Amazon and seeing how crappy they look in the grille I’m working on the same thing on my Big Bend grille. What did you screw into to anchor the mesh?

A very small self-tapping screw. I anchored the top piece on either end (I tapped into a support piece that is attached to the grill. I did NOT anchor to the grill itself which is very thin). I'll see if I can find a picture. Either that or I'll take it apart and take some pictures.

 

[tock13]

Appreciate the info. I think this is a must have mod especially for the Big Bend/OBX grille with the huge openings.

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