The Ultimate DIY Cool Suit Thread
 

There is no way for me to take credit for this as my own idea, but I will try and share info that is helpful for others looking to make their own cool shirt setup.

Every one knows what they are and many of us want them, but the cost is often quite high. The concept is easy, run cold water through a shirt. Done. The execution looks simple enough, but finding the right pieces can be a challenge. Here's a parts list:

Cooler - Engel UC13 or UC19
http://www.engel-usa.com/images/uc19.jpg
This is an airtight cooler with a locking strap and one inch of insulation. Very solid and can be found from many vendors. I found the best deal here.

http://www.austinkayak.com/products/...ler-UC-19.html

Connectors

You need some of these:
http://www.quickcouplings.net/osc/images/PLCD22004.jpg
http://quickcouplings.net/osc/produc...0bf45c5000cc67

And some of these:
http://www.quickcouplings.net/osc/images/PLCD17004.jpg
http://quickcouplings.net/osc/produc...7515af208b575e

They also carry them with other fitting ends, but the main thing is the valved CPC fitting which prevents it from leaking all over the place when disconnected. I bought a few others that are non-valved in order to allow the shirt to air dry inside the lines once cleaned.

Then you need hose. I used the 1/4 ID flexible vinyl hose. I've seen mention of 3/8 inch hose, but the flow is still the same through the fitting itself. I'm looking to pick up some hose insulation as well.

The Rule 360 pump seems to be a common selection as is the Attwood Tsunami 800. Both are $20-$30 from a boating store.

A livewell timer will allow the suit to cycle on and off to maximize your comfort level.


Expect updates shortly as I'm building it over the next few days and will try and take pictures of the progress.

Cool! But the real question.....are you gonna make the shirt, too? :)

that is awesome...

If you're buying connectors anyway... Get one pair of the red fia mandated ones that will pull free if tugged on hard enough.

http://www.pegasusautoracing.com/pro...asp?RecID=5271

Ew.. $54 or $9.. Hard call. ;) I guess if you are racing FIA, you may want to start off by getting those. But what a crock.. Wouldn't mind paying a little more, but 500% is ridiculous.

I already own the shirt. The shirts are well made and comfortable and worth the money from a time perspective. The ones that are nomex also use the fire proof sewing thread so it is fully compliant. for single layer suits.

Fritz you wanna partner up? I'm opening a Chinese sweat shop in my basement to make my kids school uniforms...maybe I could have them make shirts too.

Excellent idea! I'll buy any shirts those tiny little fingers produce for $20 a piece.. $25 if they are nomex.. :D

..of course I hope you're only adding a $.14 label that says "NOMEX". :D

They can be found for less elsewhere but are still more expensive.