Purpose of Hood to Radiator Seal?

[PLUM72]

What is the purpose of the hood to radiator seal?  This is the piece of rubber that fastens to the underside of the hood along the front.  Any draw back to not having this seal?

[Rich G.]

I believe it helps the air flow through the radiator and not over it. Every little bit helps I guess.

[moparroy]

Exactly - force air down through rad rather than letting it just pass. More rad air flow

[usraptor]

I have a built 440/512 ci (no AC or PS) but completely stock cooling system; original 26" radiation, fan, and a new fan clutch.  I also have the hood seal installed.  In spite of reading several posts over the years about people fighting overheating issues, my engine always run cool, even on 90-100 degrees and my car is black. It's never been over  half way on the temp gauge in 2000 miles. I wish I could say the same thing about the interior.   Don't know how much the hood seal contributes to this, but I'm not taking it off.