1969 RCA resurrection

[Matt Clark]

So, coming up with a 3 point plan of action for operation "5-pound turd in a 3-pound bag":

2. Add a front roll hoop over the steering wheel

Can you post some pics of the dash / front hoop area with the body off?
If you redo the front hoop to go above the dash & then remove some of the lower dash, that should gain you a lot of room. That is how most FVs are. The existing configuration is giving up a TON of leg space for you. Just make sure it fits under the body.

[BLS]

Regarding roll bar replacement - make sure you have a very qualified person design this as adding height changes the force on the frame that occurs when you get upside down, and those forces will come from all directions...

[CharlesVsWorld]

Ok going to find someone who knows about these things to check my thoughts.

But here is one version that fits under the bodywork, frees up more knee room and retains much of the original chassis. Main roll-over bar is also extended.

[Matt Clark]

That is more like other cars, so that should be ok.
All the tweaks (rollbars, seat, etc) in combination should get you a surprising amount of room, but it will be tight no matter what.

[jrh3]

That is more like other cars, so that should be ok.
All the tweaks (rollbars, seat, etc) in combination should get you a surprising amount of room, but it will be tight no matter what.

The forward roll bar braces can help or hinder shoulder clearance depending upon the angle. Some test fitting may be beneficial. Some upper frame rail triangulation and gussets may be useful with forward mounting.

[Hardingfv32]

I still do not think the front hoop is tall enough. You need to mock up the existing chassis with you in the car to validate your proposal.

I do not think you should have bracing over your knees. Your knees should be up in this area. Forget with the original body work over your legs. It is giving up to much space a big driver needs.

A tight fitting car is not really what you need as a new driver to this class and with probably not the best handling car. You need to be able to comfortably flail your arms and hands.

Brian

[brian styczynski]

The forward roll bar braces can help or hinder shoulder clearance depending upon the angle. Some test fitting may be beneficial. Some upper frame rail triangulation and gussets may be useful with forward mounting.

Agree on all of this. The GCR has specifics about gussets.

[Hardingfv32]

Not mentioned before, but the forward main hoop braces will have 1/2" padding on them.

Brian

[Steve Davis]

Not mentioned before, but the forward main hoop braces will have 1/2" padding on them.

Brian

At least ...

[Steve Davis]

AND.. there is no requirement that the braces be absolutely STRAIGHT. They can be 'curved as needed' .. and you can 'bump up' the dia if the curve need is too great ... and gussets can help A LOT in that regard.
Steve

[BLS]

I still do not think the front hoop is tall enough. You need to mock up the existing chassis with you in the car to validate your proposal.

I do not think you should have bracing over your knees. Your knees should be up in this area. Forget with the original body work over your legs. It is giving up to much space a big driver needs.

A tight fitting car is not really what you need as a new driver to this class and with probably not the best handling car. You need to be able to comfortably flail your arms and hands.

Brian

My bold of Brian's comment. I don't see how you would possibly fit with the bracing as shown.

[pacratt]

Not mentioned before, but the forward main hoop braces will have 1/2" padding on them.

Brian

All the FIA roll bar padding I've seen is 3/4"-1" thick.
There's alot to consider while you're in pre-design...glad you're taking time to plan for safety as well as anxious to get out for the fun.
Glenn

[BLS]

All the FIA roll bar padding I've seen is 3/4"-1" thick.
There's alot to consider while you're in pre-design...glad you're taking time to plan for safety as well as anxious to get out for the fun.
Glenn

SFI I see is also 3/4 minimum (I didn't look up the rule itself).

http://www.rollbarpadding.com