STi-R behind bumper cover?

**Z1NONLY** · 10-06-2009, 08:02 PM

I did the install!

http://www.radardetector.net/forums/...e-display.html

**samq45** · 10-07-2009, 08:15 AM

Originally Posted by EscortRadar

Originally Posted by Woodscolby

I wouldn't recommend putting it behind the plastic. The day I got my STI-R I mounted it on the lower grill but a bit behind the plastic because i would have to pull down on the bumper to slide the antenna into the slot.

Original Mounting Position(antenna is under the drivers side headlight next to the jammer):

I was not getting the off-axis detection I have seen in most STI-R test videos and I had read some of DJ's posts about different types of plastics interfering and cutting down detection length. I finally broke down and moved the antenna to where I pulled on the plastic to slide it in and had some difficulties getting it level again but since doing so I am getting 1/4 mile to 1/2 mile increased range from what I used to and have seen a dramatic increase in range for off-axis as well as improved rampup performance. If possible keep the antenna on the outside of the bumper.

Interesting. I noticed only a slight difference when mounted behind a continuous piece of painted plastic and when mounted in the open, nothing clost to the ranges you are describing.

There are about 50 different versions of plastic mixes used for thermoplastic olefin bumpers. Bumpers also are of diferent thickness. Compare a ford Focus to and A8 - A8 is much thicker.

Some affect radar more dramatically then others due to the different plastic blends. On my A6 the rage for the STi-r was equal to my Rx-65 when behind the bumper. From what I understand BMWs and Audis use a higher percentage of metal in the olefins and it has a bigger effect on the radar. Also the mix of the paint can make a difference. Certain Metallic and pearl added to the paint can effect it more, but it depends on the blend.

Different cars plastic will have a diferenct effect on the STi-r's detection ability. I would love to put it behind the plastic, but it defeats the purpose for my car anyhow. Other will have different results.

**djrams80** · 10-07-2009, 08:34 AM

Originally Posted by samq45

There are about 50 different versions of plastic mixes used for thermoplastic olefin bumpers. Bumpers also are of diferent thickness. Compare a ford Focus to and A8 - A8 is much thicker.

Some affect radar more dramatically then others due to the different plastic blends. On my A6 the rage for the STi-r was equal to my Rx-65 when behind the bumper. From what I understand BMWs and Audis use a higher percentage of metal in the olefins and it has a bigger effect on the radar. Also the mix of the paint can make a difference. Certain Metallic and pearl added to the paint can effect it more, but it depends on the blend.

Different cars plastic will have a diferenct effect on the STi-r's detection ability. I would love to put it behind the plastic, but it defeats the purpose for my car anyhow. Other will have different results.

I agree. I think making a blanket statement that a Belscort remote will work fine behind a bumper cover is dangerous. There are just too many factors to consider.

**BrownOut** · 10-23-2009, 01:17 PM

When in doubt stick it out. Why chance crippling detection range after spending the money for it.

**lugnuts** · 10-23-2009, 01:36 PM

Originally Posted by samq45

There are about 50 different versions of plastic mixes used for thermoplastic olefin bumpers. Bumpers also are of diferent thickness. Compare a ford Focus to and A8 - A8 is much thicker.

. From what I understand BMWs and Audis use a higher percentage of metal in the olefins and it has a bigger effect on the radar. Also the mix of the paint can make a difference. Certain Metallic and pearl added to the paint can effect it more, but it depends on the blend.

not all bumpers are TPO some are urethane.

plastics do not contain metal. unless its pre-colored with a metal flake. but we are talking about 3% color additive with a very small % of that being the flake, if it is even metal flake. not enough to effect anything. and for bumpers none that I know of are pre-colored with a metallic color.

some automotive plastic will have metal plating (trim grills etc..) and some may have paint that contains metal flake. but the polymer itself does not have any metal in it.

**Batman** · 10-23-2009, 01:46 PM

I just put the radar out. It looks barely noticeable anyway, and I like the extra reception strength.

Plus its hard to find an area of the bumper not obscured by the metal part of the bumper which provides structural protection.

**samq45** · 10-28-2009, 03:17 PM

Originally Posted by lugnuts

not all bumpers are TPO some are urethane.

plastics do not contain metal. unless its pre-colored with a metal flake. but we are talking about 3% color additive with a very small % of that being the flake, if it is even metal flake. not enough to effect anything. and for bumpers none that I know of are pre-colored with a metallic color.

some automotive plastic will have metal plating (trim grills etc..) and some may have paint that contains metal flake. but the polymer itself does not have any metal in it.

Some Plastics do contain metal. PEX tubing used in homes can contain Aluminum.

Aluminium (or Aluminum Oxide) iss at least used as a catylst for the production of TPOs and also sometimes with magnesium and/or titanium.

Several TPO patents mention Aluminum, Aluminum Oxide and other metals, but as I stated it was only my understanding that these compounds contained at least some metal that could possibly affect the radar waves.

I am not an expert in this area. If you Google thermoplastic olefin aluminum several items come up, but most of it is way beyond me and the metal amounts in the final product may be only trace.

All I know is my bumper does negatively effect the performance of my STi-R.

**sniper4usmc** · 11-01-2009, 01:20 PM

I installed my Sti-R yesterday,,Damage $135 installed...
http://www.radardetector.net/forums/...tml#post632547

**MetalFlame** · 11-01-2009, 03:57 PM

Remote receiver can be mounted behind plastic bumper or grille,without loosing detection,but plastic must be flat,not curved.
Also,I don't know if this holds true for circular polarized radars,but horizontal grille slats reduce detection range more than vertical slats.

Avoid mounting behind:
*bumper that's made from/with carbon fibers,Poly-Carbonate
*things made with graphite,teflon,lead
*metallic paint or old paints with lead
*any metal objects
*thick grilles

Some of the newer BMW models,AUDI's and VW's have have very "bad" bumpers,that don't pass Radar signals well.VAG cars have bumpers from PPP-EPDM which attenuate radar signals.

Bumpers made with/from PP,ABS+PET, ABS, ASA, EVA, PS will pass Radar signals.

Another VERY important thing is to ALWAYS mount radar receiver at least 2-3 inches behind the bumper or any other (plastic) obstacle.