03/1982 Series 3
I would like to get a roll bar that would save my head! And also fit under the soft top. Does anyone make one?
Does any one make one where you can quickly add/remove an extension for the roll bar metal top bar, so when the soft top is on the metal extension is off, and when the soft top is off, you add the metal extension?
Thanks in Advance!
If you plan to use the bar as a show piece for the street, then yes, IAP and Autopower make them so that they will allow the top to go up, when the bar is installed. However, none of these will save your head in case of a collision, and for sure they will not hold if the car flips over - and both suppliers will be the first to tell you that they are only for show. No one makes a functional bar for the Spider that will allow the top to go up. In fact, the Autopower track bar requires that you remove the top frame altogether!
If you want a functional bar, then the only way to go is custom. The Spider rear deck, where the main hoop would be supported, has a double floor and one must cut into the deck to create sort of box to support the main hoop. Then the braces that support the main hoop typically are run to the back area, around where the rear deck lid meets the wall that separates the trunk from the cabin, and they require a backing plate for reinforcement. If you position the braces above the rear deck lid, you will have to cut into the trunk floor, close to where the wall is to be able to attach the plates. If you position the braces a little lower, you can install the plates from underneath the car, but you will have to cut into the rear deck lid a bit. Finally, to ensure that the bar won't collapse, you will need a diagonal (single or double) reinforcement. Provided you use the proper tubing (DOM mild steel 1.75 OD X 0.120 wall), this bar would be functional in case the car flips over, but it will not be legal to use on a track. For that, at a minimum, it must clear your head when wearing a helmet (today's helmets are fairly large, and they keep getting bigger), and most tracks require that the clearance be at least 2 inches. This means that you won't be able to raise the top over the bar.
Fabricating a functional bar requires a little research. I would suggest that you review the AROC Competition Code at
Alfa Romeo Owners Club USA | Home and also the SCCA website.
Best regards,
