rollbar to aid rigidity?

[mhibbins]

I was planning on putting a rollbar in my s3 for when I go sprinting. Would this help the rigidity of the car when the top is down as a side effect? I find that it jiggles at speed with the roof off and it's a bit unnerving on the motorway. Can anyone recommend a particular make of rollbar (and fitter) that allows me to use the hood up or down? This convertible lark is still a bit of a novelty, hope it gets warm soon or I'll end up with frost bite. I got caught out on the way home and got soaked tonight. It seems ok over 60mph but the M4 had other ideas... doh. -- Mark Edited by mhibbins on Wednesday 28th March 22:37

[LeeBee]

Give Peninsula a call (Richard or Neil 01884 35341, tell them Lee sent you!) they do a very nice looking rollbar which is not too dear.I have a photo somewhere that I could send you (e mail me, [e-mail]).A friend of mine has one fitted to his Wedge and he says it really stiffens the chassis up Cheers Lee

[mhibbins]

Will do, thanks. How dear is not too dear just so as I'm prepared... -- Mark

[PetrolTed]

That wedge picture is at http://www.pistonheads.com/tvr/wedges/

[mhibbins]

Lee, I mentioned to them that you suggested I called and they doubled the price... cheers. -- Mark

[Paul V]

How much was it? I was considering something similar for my S2.

[mhibbins]

He thought it would be about 220+vat. I assume that would be in black and the powder coated finish which looks very nice on the website would be another 70 quid. Then you've got to fit it. -- Mark

[Paul V]

Thanx, I might have a look around and compare some prices.

[ianw]

Peninsula fitted one to my V8S and did a very good job. Looks good with silver powder coat. Also fitted 4 point harnesses at the same time.

[GreenV8S]

quote: Can anyone recommend a particular make of rollbar (and fitter) that allows me to use the hood up or down?

You're right to be considering the practicality of the bar. There are quite a few things to consider, including how far back the top bar is (so you don't smack your head on it), how high up it is (so you can see under it), how well the rear stays line up with the seat (so you don't break your neck when you fit a harness) and whether you can still get the seat back with it fitted and still use the original seat belt (unless you fit an E-marked harness you will need this at MOT time). So there are lots of ways to get it wrong. You also need to fit it properly to within a couple of mmm of the shell with adequate clearance around the bodywork, and seal around the holes. With the amount of variation from car to car it is probably best to get the person who supplies the bar to fit it so they can make any fine adjustments necessary to suit your car. I got mine from Tower View Race Services (0208 452 6922) and they have done a fine job. I have seen some from other places which are also fine, and some which are not so fine. Peter Humphries (and a green V8S)

[TVR Mark]

Let us know how you get on as I'm considering one for my S3.