Question for those with Targa Body Braces

[spedrcr]

Just curious if there is a consensus on the install of the body braces.

Once installed do you load force by pulling together? Pushing apart? Or just snug up and call it good?

[McLovin]

I have a set.

I tried all three of the methods you describe.

My set is now in the garage cabinet, because IMO all three are equally ineffective.

(Those bars as installed are practically vertical. No surprise they make no noticeable difference)

[tdw28210]

I think I jacked up the front end on each side and the tightened up when I first installed them. It's not like transformational change as the angle is pretty steep, but I like mine. I probably have snugged them once or twice in 5 years. YMMV.

[Darkly-Noon]

I jacked up the side of my car a few inches using the jack socket in the rocker panel (not high enough to raise the wheels off the ground), and installed the braces. So when the car is back on the ground, the braces are in compression. As with the others, I could not detect a significant difference, though there seems to be less squeaking between the targa top and the front of the roll bar.

[Tony V]

One thing I've noticed, with the bars installed, is that it's easier to open the doors when it's on the lift. Must contribute to the stiffness of the car to do that.

[911tracker85]

I have a set on my 85 targa.

after installing I twisted them to lengthen them until pretty tight.

at best they reduce the shudder a bit.

now when I had a full cage in this car ... that stiffened it nicely.

[spedrcr]

All of these ideas make some sense. I think I'll put on the targa top, raise the front of the car slightly and then install the bars to snug. If all I get is a reduction in shudder, no matter how slight, then its worth it to me.

Thanks all. I appreciate it.

[tcar]

I noticed a difference.

They should be in tension, not compression, per the instructions.

[spedrcr]

Originally Posted by tcar

I noticed a difference.

They should be in tension, not compression, per the instructions.

Instructions? I didn't receive any instructions with my set. Do you have a set you can post please?

[dyerkes]

Nor did I, so a copy of the directions would be helpful.

David