Specifics on installing roll cage

[z-man]

I have an on-going project 87 S-15 with a 406/350. I\'m working on installing an 8 point cage, but struggling with the decision on running the rear bars through the window or lowering them to go through the back wall of the cab. I\'m mainly installing the cage to help stiffen the chassis, so running through the window will probably be the best choice. What choices do I have with the window? Can I have holes cut in the glass? If so, the window will have to be in when the cage is welded. Is there enough room between the window and the main support bars to weld the rear bars with a mig? Please help!!!

[basementdweller]

Im pretty sure if you go through the window it can NOT be made of glass, you need to go with lexan or plexiglass. http://www.s10v8.com/images/smilies/icon_razz.gif cutting glass weakens it VERY much so the slightest thing can make it shatter... even a hard ass launch could cause it to spider.

[doghouse]

READ: ROLL BAR REAR BRACES in this sectin of the forum.



by the way the rear glass is tempered. It will turn to little pieces if you try to cut it.



I plan to go through the cab above the glass there is just enough room.



Also racing rules dictate the braces must be no more than 5 inches below the top of the hoop bar. So if you go below the rear window you will not have a legal cage. So why even bother putting one in if it isn\'t up to par with the rules.



I don\'t think another member would do that?



Would he?





good luck zman.

[z-man]

I guess I didn\'t do very much research concerning rules on cages. I have seen a few trucks with the rear bars through the cab wall underneath the window, so I figured that would be OK, also potentially easier install. Live and learn. I\'m probably going to end up running the bars through the window and fit some plexiglass, since it\'s just a bit cheaper than lexan http://www.s10v8.com/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif Thanks for the info

[whiner3]

i\'ve seen them go under the window in extended cabs but not regular cabs,

[drivin2fast]

you only have to comply to the rules if you are going to get it certified and you cannot cut the factory glass if you put hole in it, it does have to be lexan or plexyglass, but if you do run fast enough to be certified which I dont think you will have to worry but anways, just incase here are the rear roll bar specs...



Rear Roll bars must attach 5 inches or less below the main hoop (top bar) and must be of no less than a 30 degree angle from vertical to the rear of the vehicle...



if you are using 2 bars you have to have 1 1/2 OD pipe (Chorme moly ID .058 Mild Steel ID .11http://www.s10v8.com/images/smilies/icon_cool.gif



If you are using 4 bars you have to have 1 3/8 OD pipe (CM ID .049 MS ID.11http://www.s10v8.com/images/smilies/icon_cool.gif only 2 bars must be withing the 5inches from top



If you are using 6 bars you have to have 1 1/4 OD pipe (CM ID .049 MS ID .11http://www.s10v8.com/images/smilies/icon_cool.gif



If you have any other questions about NHRA rules or what ever, I can answer them... just send me a message

[drivin2fast]

sorry bout the little http://www.s10v8.com/images/smilies/icon_cool.gif dudes it was supposed to be .118

[doghouse]

Ok drivin2fast



Explain to me how you plan to attach the rear braces to the main hoop?



You have to be no more than 5 inches from the top. So the only bar going across the cab other than the main hoop is the cross brace that is below shoulder height, which rules that out to hook into.



This leaves only the main hoop bar which is above the top of the rear window unless you are sitting on the floor or under 5\' 8\" This is at the top of the cab to leave the 3\" of clearance from the top of your helmet to the bottom of the main hoop.



I don\'t see how you can use the window as a pass through spot because it is to low.





As far a certification unless you are running under

9 seconds in the quarter mile you don\'t need a certified frame. You only need to pass the local tech.



The 6 point cage is for hard top vehicles or cars running 9.99 to 11.49. http://www.s10v8.com/images/smilies/icon_confused.gif http://www.s10v8.com/images/smilies/icon_confused.gif http://www.s10v8.com/images/smilies/icon_confused.gif

[drivin2fast]

well, most trucks come off the main hoop anyways... I understand you question, but really dont know how to answer it or if there is an answer... Id say just talk to a local Tech person, see what they would tollerate, but if you ever have it certified... again, it could be a special acception