J-P: You're absolutely right about the gauge being almost meaningless (hell, there aren't even any numbers on it!!), and I mentioned that I'll be adding a dip-stick thermometer (like a chef's candy thermometer) as soon as I find a good one. Then, maybe I'll know what the heck's going on back there for sure. Once I get an idea of what my true operating range is, then I should be able to roughly calibrate this semi-idiot gauge , and I'll also know for sure if I need another cooler!!!!)
I had the same fear about the cooler up over the tranny - not enough air flow without a scoop - even thought of Boxster-style side scoops and abandoned that as too radical for the Speedster look. Then there's the hassle of mounting it, directing air to it and plumbing it. I was also worried of mounting it vertically on the outside wall of the engine compartment next to the wheel - might get a stone ding and puncture it (although George Brown has this set-up on his new IM).
Pretty much ended up with the same idea of front-mounting it on an angle between the bumper mounts, scoop air up to it and exhaust it below the battery well (I've a CMC). Even had room for the fan shroud. Sounded good, and bought a cooler, but I never completed it. The approach of metal tubes through the center channel is tried and true and is easy for a VW or Porsche, which have access covers, but you would have to find a way to get metal tubes into the tunnel and have access at either end - easy when the body's off, lots harder when it's on but not impossible.
Bilge Fans: They really don't move a lot of air compared to the fan in the engine shroud. I would be more inclined to add a shallow scoop across the bottom of the car to pull air up into the cavity between the rear seat and firewall, make sure the hole in the firewall is the size of the fan opening and put a collar on the engine side of the firewall to direct that air into the fan. As you mentioned - get as much cool air to the fan as possible.
Anyway, we're thinking along similar lines here. Guess I'll start seriously looking for a thermometer!
gn