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Power Retractable Hard Top


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#1
Chad Martin

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Has anyone messed with the PRHT on the newer cars?  Basically i'm curious if the chassis is different if it has the PRHT or, if removed in full is it the same as a rag top chassis?



#2
Jim Drago

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We built one a few years back. For the most part they are the same
Jim

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#3
Jim Boemler

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"The most part" excludes pretty much everything above the chassis rails, and between the seat backs and the rear bumper.  Specifically, the trunk lid is shaped slightly differently, and is only available in steel (the soft-top trunk lids are aluminum).  That also means that the piece forward of the trunk lid doesn't exist.  Also, you probably wouldn't be able to add the removable hard top -- maybe not an issue depending on your purpose.



#4
Jim Drago

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We actually used a power retractable car to build a body in white. The other way around may be difficult as JB points out
Jim

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#5
Chad Martin

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Purpose would be to buy a car now expecting to make it a racer a few years down the road.

 

If all the soft/hard top bits are removed are the chassis the same weight, rigidity (with full cage), and yeah the ability to use the removable hard top is key...



#6
Jim Boemler

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Far as I know there was nothing heavier used in the PRHT.  If you're figuring on doing any half-steps on the way (HPDE/PDX) with the car, keep in mind that you won't be able to put a roll bar or partial cage in the car and still use the PRHT.



#7
Chad Martin

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So, can the removable hard top be used on a PRHT car?  If the trunk lid was aluminum on the rag top vs steel on the PRHT that to me says there is a potential weight difference high in the rear of the car....



#8
Jim Boemler

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Not sure, Chad.  The area forward of the trunk lid is shaped different on the PRHT, and doesn't have the "frankenstein" bolts to mount the removable hard top.  The weight difference is real, although most of it is in the top itself rather than the trunk lid.  Bottom line, though, is that the PRHT just isn't the right starting point for a track car.



#9
Chad Martin

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Agreed.  Just trying to see if it is a non-starter or just a, "not the best idea".






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