Am looking at putting a roll bar attached to four points on the frame in my 72 convertible. I still want to retain the functioning top and deck lid. Understand the deck lid will have to be modified. Has anyone done this before and have plans for how they built one or does anyone know a company that makes one that is a good fit. What modifications have to be made to the deck lid/top?

Thanks

 

Modifications to the deck lid really depends on how tall you are. I have seen a few nicely done 4 point setups on both C-2 and C-3 verts that fit in front of the deck lid with either notches for the rear strut or low bars that cleared the deck. It would dpend on the intent, form or function. low bars or limited bracing would be useless in an actual rol-over.

I'm designing a removable bar whose sole purpose is my protection for track days. I'm 6'-1" and the seat is all the way back against the deck. Also, the diagonal brace, cross brace, and rear braces will obviously interfere with the deck lid and top, so my answer is a second hatch for those times when the bar is in. When I have a track day coming up, I'll remove the 4 bolts that hold the top on, remove the hatch, bolt in the bar and fit the hatch in around the bar.

I was thinking of cutting out farly large openings in the race hatch so it would close around the bars somehow, then fit the cut-out pieces in after it's in place with twist fastners or something similar to give it a finished look. I'm hoping to find a used hatch when I'm ready to do it. I've hesitated up until now because of the value issue, but mine is no trailer queen so that's less of an issue for me than it is for others.

Hope this helps.

Hans

 

Thanks. I am looking for something permanent, dont want the hassel of taking bars in and out. I guess I am going to have to play with it and come up with a compromise between function and asthetics. I know I am not the first one who has done this.

 

No problem. Check with AutoPower roll bars in SoCal. I'm sure they have done these with a working hatch and top.

Hans

 

Here's my 4 point in my 71 vert. Top goes up and down w/ no problem. My hardtop fits as well. Bar was done before I bought the car in 1981. Deck was nicely notched w/ my recent paint job. If you need anymore dimensions - just let me know.

 

Here's the finished deck-

 

Nice roll bar but unfortunately not NHRA legal...