Can't decide cage or roll bar
I'm trying to decide what to do on this XJ, it's a well-built wheeler & DD (Long Arms, Rock sliders, D44, Detroit, etc on 32's) and I picked up a cage kit (D & C) for cheap. After test fitting the cage, it eats up a lot of interior space in the front of the cab. Head contact seems an obvious concern, add some padding and it get real crowded.
So. . . I'm considering NOT installing the full cage. Just the B-hoop and back. Adding additional triangulation to the B-hoop, and tying it into the upper seatbelt mounts, and rock sliders. And adding some additional triangulation/gussets to the down-supports and C-hoop.
No debate on the advantage of a full cage on a TJ or CJ, where there is significantly more head-room and a rag-top but, on the XJ, it seems I may be more likely to bounce my head against a cage, than the original interior and that kind-of defeats the purpose. . .
I also think it may allow me to cut/sleeve the uprights on the B-hoop and maybe do most of my welding and paint outside the vehicle.
Any thoughts on how much rigidity and protection I'd give up with this plan?
I'm trying to decide what to do on this XJ, it's a well-built wheeler & DD (Long Arms, Rock sliders, D44, Detroit, etc on 32's) and I picked up a cage kit (D & C) for cheap. After test fitting the cage, it eats up a lot of interior space in the front of the cab. Head contact seems an obvious concern, add some padding and it get real crowded.
So. . . I'm considering NOT installing the full cage. Just the B-hoop and back. Adding additional triangulation to the B-hoop, and tying it into the upper seatbelt mounts, and rock sliders. And adding some additional triangulation/gussets to the down-supports and C-hoop.
No debate on the advantage of a full cage on a TJ or CJ, where there is significantly more head-room and a rag-top but, on the XJ, it seems I may be more likely to bounce my head against a cage, than the original interior and that kind-of defeats the purpose. . .
I also think it may allow me to cut/sleeve the uprights on the B-hoop and maybe do most of my welding and paint outside the vehicle.
Any thoughts on how much rigidity and protection I'd give up with this plan?
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