[DeTomaso] roll bar /roll cage question

[GW]

I think having the roll bar on the engine side of the firewall is a 
great idea; it is more challenging though. I wanted to do it that way 
but ran out of compromises. For one I could not compromise the size of 
my fuel tank any more. It also becomes a little less removable.

I think Denis did this?

Gary

cullen mccann wrote:
> Question:
>
> I notice with respect to the firewall (or bulkhead is referring to the same
> panel correct?) that some/ most cages appear to have the main hoop on the
> passenger side/ interior side of the firewall ( like Gary's) and some if
> seen have it on the engine bay side. I would think the engine bay side would
> be less intrusive on the passenger area, but then obviously if you have door
> bars or A-pillar down bars and they tie-in to the main hoop you would have
> to penetrate the firewall to anchor to the main hoop, etc. I suppose if the
> main hoop is on the engine bay side it probably crowds the fuel tank on the
> driver side and electrical system on the passenger. 
>
> Structurally, it seems to me that both solutions would provide adequate
> reinforcement, and you can anchor at the inner rockers in either case since
> it extends past the firewall towards the motor bay. I do like way Gary ties
> so much of the suspension anchor points in, and the roofline near deck lid
> hinges...etc. Great for chassis bracing from what I can see, especially
> considering the stress points. 
>
> Referring back to the "cardboard box with the lid off" comparison that I
> have read about, and combined with Garth's Rodericks compiled "Pantera
> upgrade tech summary"  (Thanks Garth, I found that and its really cool,
> taught me a lot about the overview of the car) . Also in chassis bracing, I
> was also reading up on seam welding. When I think about the bracing, the
> seam welding could add some strength, but it would be like putting 3 layers
> of packing tape on the edges of the cardboard box. It undoubtedly would
> help, but the triangulation of the cage would be leaps and bounds ahead for
> providing chassis strength, correct?
>
> So, case-in-point.......given the compromises on either end with regards to
> main hoop on the interior vs on the engine bay side, what are the arguments
> for either side? Which do you prefer if you had decided you were going to
> have a cage?
>
> Thanks for helping out the new guy!
>
> Cullen
> rusty 3925 in OK
>
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