I'm thinking of removing the lower cover (splash pan) from under the engine. The one with 4 screws that requires removal for oil changes. My thought is this would provide additional air circulation during hot summer driving. Is this a stupid idea or woth consideration ?

 

I would leave it on. The engine is cooled by the radiator/coolant in a pressurized closed loop system. I don't think the temperature will be affected much by external air circulation unless more air passes through the radiator. Even then the thermostat will keep it near optimal temperature unless it is extremely hot and you are loading the motor extensively like going up a mountain pass @90mph with the A.C. blasting and your 400# mother in law riding shotgun.

 

Just drove through the mountains from Calgary to Port Coquitlam, the Rockies + Rogers Pass etc. Left Kimberley this morning and through Golden and home. It was as hot as 38 degrees today in Kamloops (100F) , air cond. on as much as we needed and 125 K per hour (77mph+) up the hills and never saw the temp go past half way. My wife is a lightweight but we had enough luggage for a couple month trip - I will post a picture of what we fit in the trunk after Jean posts it on the west coast site! You should be okay. Ron

 

Thanks for the advice, remains in place it is. Just replaced the pass side low beam, Took 5 min - no problems, easy after reviewing "how to change a bulb" on the site. Cam

 

I actually ran across a guy that did not have the lower engine cover. It wound up letting a ton more dirt and grime to get to the engine.. I would recommend consider leaving it on, unless you enjoy cleaning your engine bay more frequently