Resupporting unibody to cut top off
#1
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Resupporting unibody to cut top off
This is not for the people that don't like the SC400/300 in convertible form. All I want to know is exactly where to re-support the unibody when the top is cut off. Preferably someone who has already done this. Hypothetically doesn't help me much. Thanks
#6
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I don't think anyone other than that one white sc with the scoop on the hood (sc500 come to anyone's mind?) has done this correctly and posted on Club Lexus about it. If you can somehow track down the guys who made it in conjunction with Autocouture then you may be in luck.
Here's that car:
Hopefully you'll find what you're looking for
Here's that car:
Hopefully you'll find what you're looking for
Last edited by FutureSC; 08-12-11 at 12:37 PM.
#7
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I've seen the trunk of the SC500 but most of the supports were for the folding top. It would be nice to find those guys to get more info. I'm trying to get a response from Newport but they might not fork out any info. Will definitely have lots of pics but gotta make sure it turns out good or I won't post. The guys in here are brutal with the comments. Ha!
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#11
The roof provides a great deal of support. Without the roof all you have is the floor and transmission tunnel to resist twisting. Likely the doors will not close once you cut off the top. I'm a structural engineer. Take a shoebox and cut out a door on each side and you'll get the idea.
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I know without the roof the structural integrity will be greatly compromised. 5spd97 the doors close fine because I already cut the top off of the one I'm taking to the crusher. Drives fine at slow speeds. However, before I jump on the real project I want the best advice so I don't twist it all up in the long run.
@ Nova we were thinking of those reinforcements. Not sure about the 6 pt cage though
@ Nova we were thinking of those reinforcements. Not sure about the 6 pt cage though
#15
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There is a lot of risk doing this for sure. A full cage would be the minimum I would do personally. It will detract from the topless look, but it would be pretty much the only thing I would trust to keep the car from folding at the joints in front of the door at the firewall, and behind the door where the B pillar used to live.
Rolling down the road is one thing. Imagine a front or rear impact with no roof. It would get ugly really quick.
Rolling down the road is one thing. Imagine a front or rear impact with no roof. It would get ugly really quick.