SCT Hood grille replacements?

[GTO1_OHIO]

New here but not to other forums such as ls1gto.com...so here's my question. The grilles on my 2003's SCT hood are rusting so my first instinct is to just open up the scoops and get some heat extraction benefits from them. But is there some sort of aftermarket baffles that I could pick up to keep rain out. I searched this forum and see that there are replacement grilles but I couldn't find anything a little more than that. No I don't want to use the scoops to direct air to the factory air box. So I need ideas what other may have done when unblocking the hood scoops. Thanks

[99GrandAMSE]

http://www.customcargrills.com/

These guys have replacement 'mesh' inserts but AFAIK, if you want new 'block off plates', you will either have to make them yourself or buy them direct from GM ... as far as leaving the hood open, I drove like that for a while but decided I didn't like the look as much as it being closed off ... be sure to post some pictures of both your cars :)

[AznGA]

Are your mesh from the factory starting to rust? The black plates are fine right? I got new grills off customcargrills site and replaced the mesh and put the block plates behind them. You should close the vent, unless you are going to have some sort of neon lights to show. Last time I checked the GM SC/T hood "close kit" is like $300. $300 for mesh and block plates. Crazy.

[GTO1_OHIO]

I saw that link for customcargrilles thanks.

There is some rust on the back of the block off plates but I think that some water must be bleeding through. I haven't taken them off yet. Whats the block off plate made of? Doesn't seem like it would rust through in only 2 years.

Theres a ls1gto sponsor Fred Beans Pontiac in PA that sells GM parts around cost so maybe I'll see what new ones would run from him. Wouldn't think of buying parts from my local dealer.
If Fred Beans too high I'll look at the aftermarket grille

Another question on the hood do you know who manufactured the hood for GM?. I'm just curious cause I'm currently waiting on a new fiberglass hood from Gravana for my GTO. Trying to get it ready for Pontiac Nationals at Norwalk in a few weeks. :D

...and ya I know better...always post pictures.

[AznGA]

Usually the plates are held by epoxy and screws from factory. I got mine thru bodyshop and they were smart enough to only use screws. You might need to use a heat gun or something to melt the epoxy. The plates are made of metal. You can try painting the plates.

Or if you still have warranty, the dealer should take care of it.