View Full Version : Roll bar install question
Long story short... I installed the 1.5" roll bars, but decided to go with the 2" roll bars. They're arriving this week.
I'd prefer to reuse the existing holes in the frame stubs, but I'm not sure how to duplicate them on the new roll bars and adapters, or if it's even possible to do it accurately. Maybe best to just drill new ones?
Has anyone attempted this?
207124
Mike.Bray
12-04-2024, 11:40 AM
I would just drill new ones.
Blitzboy54
12-04-2024, 12:10 PM
Well, here is how I would try it. Measure with calipers from a marked spot that you can use as a repeatable reference. Measure to the center of the hole. Put the sleeve and roll bar in when set use a 1/8 inch bit and drill the center. If it is off a little bit it will eventually correct itself as you go to larger bits, worse case you might make the hole a bit bigger.
The only other option I see is to drill a new one but you picked that spot for a reason.
I drilled holes in the outer tube and tapped the inner tube, attached with hardened bolts (2 per leg)
Jeff Kleiner
12-04-2024, 12:39 PM
I agree with Mike. You will have to use sleeves inside of the 2” bars. My experience is that it works best to slip them in so that the ends are flush then do a couple of tacks at the ends to secure them. With that done drill through the whole works together; 2” bar, sleeves and chassis stubs.
Jeff
Yes, probably easiest to drill new holes, and I'll tack weld the sleeves as Jeff suggested.
This could work too...
207125
Blitzboy54
12-04-2024, 01:01 PM
Yes, probably easiest to drill new holes, and I'll tack weld the sleeves as Jeff suggested.
This could work too...
207125
Holy smokes, that is awesome!
Yeah, put the sleeves in and test fit. Make whatever manipulations to need. I had to stretch mine a 1/8 to get them to fit over the studs. They were a little tight. Also be aware you will need to clean the sleeves and the inside of the roll bars out with a bur or some such, otherwise you will be hammering them together and they will not come off gracefully. Once everything fits together and comes back apart the way you want it, tach weld the sleeves in. At that point I would use your super awesome laser cross hair and re drill in the same spot.
You sir have some terrific toys.
Holy smokes, that is awesome!
Yeah, put the sleeves in and test fit. Make whatever manipulations to need. I had to stretch mine a 1/8 to get them to fit over the studs. They were a little tight. Also be aware you will need to clean the sleeves and the inside of the roll bars out with a bur or some such, otherwise you will be hammering them together and they will not come off gracefully. Once everything fits together and comes back apart the way you want it, tach weld the sleeves in. At that point I would use your super awesome laser cross hair and re drill in the same spot.
You sir have some terrific toys.
I may try it on one to see how it works, then decide on the others.
Thanks for the tips... I recall reading about those challenges in your thread. It's good to know it can be done, but hopefully I'll get some tubing that fits easily.
jklapp
12-04-2024, 08:48 PM
I emailed FFR to inquire about buying the 2 in bars, and they said they could not sell them for a mk4 due to liability reasons. Every time I look online, they are out of stock. I’m curious how folks are getting them.
I emailed FFR to inquire about buying the 2 in bars, and they said they could not sell them for a mk4 due to liability reasons. Every time I look online, they are out of stock. I’m curious how folks are getting them.
I just called and ordered them, and they shipped within three business days. No fuss.
Blitzboy54
12-04-2024, 10:46 PM
I emailed FFR to inquire about buying the 2 in bars, and they said they could not sell them for a mk4 due to liability reasons. Every time I look online, they are out of stock. I’m curious how folks are getting them.
That is bizarre. I ordered them with my kit. It was a separate side order but I got them without an issue. I would call
MPTech
12-05-2024, 03:32 PM
Didn't know if you were dead-set on the FFR 2"/Tall rollbars or if the Breeze Roll Bars were considered.
I bought these 10+ years ago and love them. 1 3/4", a little shorter, and a slight rake. They are also 1 piece and no Frankenstein bolt (only downside is they must be final welded.
I was able to get them as Stainless Steel and had them polished, they look great and I've received lots of compliments on them.
https://breezeautomotive.com/shop/roll-bar-parts-kit-1-3-4-carbon-steel/
Didn't know if you were dead-set on the FFR 2"/Tall rollbars or if the Breeze Roll Bars were considered.
I bought these 10+ years ago and love them. 1 3/4", a little shorter, and a slight rake. They are also 1 piece and no Frankenstein bolt (only downside is they must be final welded.
I was able to get them as Stainless Steel and had them polished, they look great and I've received lots of compliments on them.
https://breezeautomotive.com/shop/roll-bar-parts-kit-1-3-4-carbon-steel/
I really like the Breeze bars. They would have been my first choice, but they're too short... my head sits about level with the top of the hoop (maybe just under). No sense in having roll bars if they can't serve their purpose.
EDIT: My first choice was no roll bars, but I lost that battle.