Autocross cone protection for 818 front bumper

[Buzz Skyline]

I'm planning to autocross my 818 soon, but I'm pretty sure the bumper won't hold up if I hit a cone hard. I'm beginning to try to come up with ways to protect it. I may make a bumper bar along the lines of these.

https://www.google.com/search?q=bumper+bar+rally&espv=2&biw=1280&bih=923&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=aM9sVevzEs2wsATYgIGQCw&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#tbm=isch&q=bumper+bar+wrx

Anyone have a better idea or solution (besides not hitting cones - that's not an option for me, unfortunately)?

[xxguitarist]

We will be making a frame-mounted rigid splitter, shadow of the car profile+4" as allowed by EM rules.

I agree that the bumper wouldn't stand a chance in a central punt. I may also line the back of the bumper with additional FG next time it's off.

[Bob_n_Cincy]

Michael and I have killed at least 30-40 cones. A lot of scuff marks but nothing broken.

Chad recommendation of Mothers R3 cleaner was a winner.

Bob

[Scargo]

The frame extension mounted splitter is the obvious solution for Auto-X. The cow-catcher.
42415
Another thought would be to bond a tube to the backside of the nose. Reinforcement from the inside.

[Buzz Skyline]

I like the bonded tube idea. Added strength without changing the look.

If I went with an aluminum splitter though, what gauge metal is reasonable?

[Scargo]

Commonly used by club/amateur racers is a sandwich of thin aluminum sheets and a corrugated spacer material. The lamination is designed for use as a heavy-duty sign material. It's lighter than most other materials and fairly strong. Available in various thicknesses. You probably want around 3/8" to 1/2" thick. For Auto-X I bet 3/8" would be fine.
In contrast to CF and FRP it does not shatter and is not that expensive. Find a local sign shop. You might even be able to buy a piece of "drop" that will work. Many can cut it to shape with 2D router or laser.
Tegris (http://powerstreamindustries.com/index.asp) is used by the pros. A little pricey. Can't break it or bend it AFAIK.
Alumalite (http://www.laminatorsinc.com/sites/www.laminatorsinc.com/files/documents/Sign-Panel-Colors.pdf)
Alumacorr (http://www.nudo.com/Sign-Panels/Designed-Performance/AlumaCorr.aspx)
Alupanel (http://www.multipaneluk.co.uk/products/sign-materials/aluminium-coil-and-sheet/)
Polymetal (http://www.laminatorsinc.com/sites/www.laminatorsinc.com/files/documents/Sign-Panel-Colors.pdf)
I'd love to hear what others use since I have not used any of the above yet. I bought a used FRP, CF skinned aftermarket splitter for my STi and it has stood-up pretty well, though it's been dinged/cracked and damaged by the heat off the headers, plus it's not light.