My targa brace [Archive]

Facime

07-07-2006, 11:41 PM

...just picked it up today. Front and back plates are 1/4 inch steel and the bars are 1'' tube. Im gonna have the guy make a second generation of it with a couple changes, but all in all Im happy with it.

I had this made because my Targa shimmy was particularly bad. I dont know if I got a driveline problem or if there is some lingering issue from when this car was "tapped" in the front, but between 65-85 it develops a nasty vibration. Oddly though it almost not even noticeable when the top is on, and now when I put my bar in as well.

Anyways, wanted to post these pics of the bar and see what you folks think.

http://home.comcast.net/~kthaney/files/targa2.jpg

http://home.comcast.net/~kthaney/files/targa3.jpg

http://home.comcast.net/~kthaney/files/targa4.jpg

89Turbo

07-07-2006, 11:51 PM

OMFG I WANT ONE PM ME ASAP

xarewhyayen

07-08-2006, 12:14 AM

holy shit thats the greatness!! see if you could get a group buy going? how much did you pay? could you get me one?

chedderknight

07-08-2006, 12:15 AM

dam, thats some nice handy work, how much?

JustAnotherVictim

07-08-2006, 12:22 AM

Pretty clean.

SupraJDS

07-08-2006, 12:24 AM

:love:

Topher E

07-08-2006, 12:26 AM

OMFG I WANT ONE PM ME ASAP
.

Facime

07-08-2006, 12:27 AM

I paid around 100 bucks to have it made and then I did my own finish work, prep and paint (I didnt have the time to get this one powdercoated). Future versions will be powdercoated, at least thats the plan.

I was introduced to this fabricator by a guy I met on another forum. I designed the bar and gave him a template to follow. He made this one as the prototype, and he will be building a jig from it. Yes I can get more made. And yes I will ask the moderators for a possible group buy.

Im glad you guys like it!

Edit: we also talked about widening the front bar in the center just enough to have the "Supra" logo laser cut into it!

xarewhyayen

07-08-2006, 12:31 AM

Facime

07-08-2006, 12:42 AM

good work weez. Id def get in on the GB its really nice... any insight on the modifications you plan to make to it for your newer version? i love how the sun visor shape is incorporated and the plate in the rear. Looks like it belongs there, and doesnt defeat the open air greatness of the targa... Whats it weigh? Whats you opinion on the difference it made in overall body flex?

When I picked it up yesterday I talked to the guy about the way the back plate mounts. We both agreed that the tube bars should come all the way back to the rear mount locations and the "tabs" will drop down off those bars, and then gusset that into the rear plate more like the front.

When sitting in the car you really keep that open roof feeling (and my fab guy and I both agreed the center made for a great "oh shit grip". As far as flex goes I cant say because by the time I got it painted it was too late for anything more than a trip up and down the highway. But I can say that ALL my targa "shimmy" went away (my car has a wicked one roll on about 65MPH). I can see already that I will definately be taking the top out alot more this summer!

JustAnotherVictim

07-08-2006, 12:43 AM

Only 100 bucks? Nice.

xarewhyayen

07-08-2006, 12:48 AM

looking closer at the pics now that you said about the bars extending to the mounting location... you're right, itd create much more rigidity than the bars attaching to the plate, and the plate to the mounting screws. The more i look at it, the more i want one.

JustAnotherVictim

07-08-2006, 12:53 AM

Why did you decide to get the bars curved?

Facime

07-08-2006, 12:55 AM

Im headed to the meet in Portland tomorrow so some guys will get a chance to look at it. After I get back from that I will try to get approval to conduct a group buy.

2 things - Realize I did all the finish work to get it prepped for paint, so getting that done before powder coating might make the price go up...or people could just get em raw and do em themselves...dunno. Also, one other benifit of this design is that it fits where the Targa stores when your not using it.

Facime

07-08-2006, 12:59 AM

Why did you decide to get the bars curved?

It was just an asthetic thing. I had seen the X-brace, but I didnt find a big "X" over my head all that appealing. Dont get me wrong that guys fab work was phenominal, I just didnt like the design. Also that one was really for a different purpose, more of a racing design. I wanted something for the street, that eliminated shimmy and flex, and at the same time kept the open air feeling as much as possible.

NashMan

07-08-2006, 02:21 AM

the only thing i whould change is make it out of t6 cause steel is just heavy

Big Wang Bandit

07-08-2006, 02:26 AM

Why do I have to be a goddamn hardtop....

Very nice!

Yellow 13

07-08-2006, 02:39 AM

Why do I have to be a goddamn hardtop....

Very nice!

Whats wrong with being a hardtop? I love my hardtop:love:

Big Wang Bandit

07-08-2006, 02:44 AM

First off. Targas = chick magnet(all I care about) and I like wind!

Anyone want a hardtop automatic! lol

pimptrizkit

07-08-2006, 03:24 AM

right on pete , that looks pretty dang good,

cant wait to see it in person.

got the motor and tranny yanked out of that white one already!. :biglaugh:

DaemoN

07-08-2006, 03:26 AM

ValgeKotkas

07-08-2006, 04:06 AM

Woah, that is a cool thing!:aigo:
Can you also make pictures from more distance maybe, so you could see the big picture?:icon_bigg

Wendigo

07-08-2006, 08:10 AM

Wow!!!!!!!!!!!! GBGBGBGBGBGBGBGBGBGB!!!!! If you got the original for a hundred bucks (I understand about the prep and paint) AND you keep your price about there, you'll have one of the best sellers EVER!!

suprahero

07-08-2006, 08:42 AM

I am trully impressed Weez. I love your design and the way it curves so it is open over your head. Very sweeet design and love the way it looks in your car. Great job..................:bowdown: ......................:eek3dance

malloynx

07-08-2006, 09:56 AM

me want one!!!

Facime

07-08-2006, 10:01 AM

Do you pretty well just take off your targa, slap that on, and throw a couple nuts onto the targa bolts? Or does it sustain itself fine just sliding over the bolts? I assume the targa will *not* fit over it with it still on?

Well, Ive only had it for a day, and I got a sub box I will need to redo, but the way I see it I can keep this in the targa holder for when needed, and yes it just slaps on with a couple bolts at the back, (the front has acorn nuts built in...or will anyways).

No, the targa can not go on over it, its an either or situation.

Facime

07-08-2006, 10:15 AM

right on pete , that looks pretty dang good,

cant wait to see it in person.

got the motor and tranny yanked out of that white one already!. :biglaugh:

wow, you got that out fast...you guys gonna rebuild that one?

yeah I'll be puttin on the sunscreen and flyin north with it on, so see ya this afternoon with it!

Facime

07-08-2006, 10:17 AM

Woah, that is a cool thing!:aigo:
Can you also make pictures from more distance maybe, so you could see the big picture?:icon_bigg

yeah I'll take some beauty photos of it today at the Portland meet, I'll try to post em up later tonight.

dbsupra90

07-08-2006, 10:27 AM

i really like the design. it contours really nice w/ the body and doesnt take away from the open targa feel.

good job!

bigal0043

07-08-2006, 11:11 AM

too bad you couldnt design one so that targa could go on top of it...

LEGNA

07-08-2006, 11:13 AM

Me want one too..

swaq

07-08-2006, 11:14 AM

Looks good WeezL!

First off. Targas = chick magnet(all I care about) and I like wind!

I already got the girl so a hardtop is fine for me :)

Mo87NA

07-08-2006, 11:26 AM

That's pretty nice. I'm def in for a group buy. Let us know ASAP.

Mo

Bishop92t

07-08-2006, 11:26 AM

Very nice. Doesn't detract from the open air feeling too much, plus it looks like it belongs.

ValgeKotkas

07-08-2006, 11:30 AM

Also, one other benifit of this design is that it fits where the Targa stores when your not using it.
Or am I mistaking something?:icon_razz

927mgtepat

07-08-2006, 11:37 AM

nice

mkiiSupraMan18

07-08-2006, 11:51 AM

I wish I could see the pics here at work... :nono:

I'm painting a kick-ass picture in my head from all the replies though.

robbo185

07-08-2006, 12:03 PM

i agree with a previous poster that if its possible to have the targa fit over it without removing it

Adjuster

07-08-2006, 12:10 PM

That is pretty dang nice. I like your idea of the "supra" logo in the middle, but it's also nice and clean the way it is now.

Make it from chromemoly tube, or aluminum, and you'd have a winner for sure. This same fabricator needs to build us a great front upper brace... (Hint hint)
There is one out there, but it's quality/appearance is lacking IMHO. This is a fixed brace, one with no flex joints, and it should tie the strut tower tops to a triangulated brace at the fire wall/cowl area. I think one that clamps to the pinch weld there would be best as the struture of the cowl is best at that point. (Or it could do both, bolt to the cowl, and clamp the pinch weld.)
Another kick ass feature to incorporate would be a brake master cyc. brace on the left tower. This just takes a threaded nut tapered at the end to fit into the dimple machined on your MC, and you preload the nut so it's just touching the end. When you step on the brake, the firewall/cowl flexes some, and this prevents that flex, so you get better brake feel. The left tower mounting bracket could incorporate the brace mount very easy. (I've see a few custom ones on the boards over the years..)

Going from one tower to the other like the cusco/hks etc. bars does little or nothing for our cars. The strut towers do not provide any alignment values like on a basic strut front end. (We have upper and lower control arms, and only use the struts to locate the coil springs, so camber, castor, toe and SAI are not affected when/if the towers flex, but "feel" is affected by chassis flex, so tying the towers to the cowl does improve the feel.)

DyslexicSquirrel

07-08-2006, 12:15 PM

DUDE!!! i saw the x brace as well and thought exactly like you did.... I wouldn't be able to stand up in my car and stick my tongue out like a dog in the wind... BUT WITH THIS I CAN.

I really do think that if you get a group buy going and you keep the price cheap... it WILL be one of the best GB's ever.

Satan

07-08-2006, 02:23 PM

I'm in....

CPT Furious

07-08-2006, 04:30 PM

Also, one other benifit of this design is that it fits where the Targa stores when your not using it.

THAT is a nice feature right there!

mazzer

07-08-2006, 04:41 PM

i would like one as well.
i dont understand you few who think this would work with the targa on . use your head. it bolts to the existing holes!:3d_frown:
anyway. i would buy one for sure if you made it from better materials. these things are heavy enough as it is..i dont care about the finishing work. ill take care of that..

p.s. alum would be awesome!

Wills7MGTE

07-08-2006, 05:57 PM

DUDE Someone needs to start seeling those ASAP, That shit is sweet, I want black or dark blue to match my interior I have a white mk3 and don't like body matching wheels or those but that is cool sell it for 150 or so and its a steal. WOO HOO

Wills7MGTE

07-08-2006, 05:58 PM

it'd be good in a roll too LOL

89Turbo

07-08-2006, 06:45 PM

saw this in person today and damn is it nice

xarewhyayen

07-08-2006, 08:39 PM

Facime

07-08-2006, 08:50 PM

Can someone please direct me the proper admin for group buy approval? :naughty:

89jdm7m

07-08-2006, 08:56 PM

as far as it costing more for a finished (coated) product, i'd take it raw and prep and paint myself if it were to come to that... id like to have it the color of my car for the effect... make it look more like it belongs rather than a universal black or silver or something... :)
i kinda like flat black for objects of this sort (89 super red) <<< my car

but yeh... it'd be awesome if we could get this GB rollin :biglaugh:

xarewhyayen

07-08-2006, 08:58 PM

try pming grimjack or jeff lange to get GB approval... id refer them to this thread incase they didnt already see it so they can see the enormous interest...

Reign_Maker

07-08-2006, 09:08 PM

try pming grimjack or jeff lange to get GB approval...Or ask Reign_Maker! :evil2:

WeezL, if ever this deserves the famous RMSoA, this is it...
http://i6.tinypic.com/1zdx98w.jpg

BTW: if you wanna get a GB goin, talk to me, we'll go over a few things...

swaq

07-08-2006, 11:35 PM

saw this in person today and damn is it nice

I saw it as well and I agree. Of course, I have a hard top so I'd have to sit out on a group buy, heh.

CTsupra

07-08-2006, 11:42 PM

suprahero

07-08-2006, 11:53 PM

Reign maker is The Man!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh yeah, you too Weezl.......................;)

Facime

07-09-2006, 12:16 AM

^ lol @ Reign_Maker.

Weezl, please ask your builder if he can somehow design this so the targa will fit over it while it is on the car. There has to be a way to make one fit with the targa on without sacrificing a secure fit. Drill out the bolts in the targa and make custom ones that are longer? I dunno... lol.

He's the builder, I designed it. I know it can be done to fit under the targa...but thats not what I was looking for. To do that, one would have to likely cut out some of the headliner or trim, remove the stock bolts, find a way to have the bar stay bolted when you take the top off, and it would have to be much lower profile and IMHO would look awful in any situation other than when the top is ON! which is a long way from what I wanted.

To be sure, we are going to play with the design a little...and I stress "a little" (for example the laser cut supra logo" and a new rear mount tab setup) but I can assure you, it will still not fit under the targa...hehe! :aigo:

Hey, I feel for ya...as it is I have to build a new sub box so I can store the bar in the back....and forget about keeping a toolbox with me...lol

Reign_Maker

07-09-2006, 12:42 AM

Whats the point of having the targa on AND a brace... The targa itself is a brace...

Weez, Im a little buzzed and its a little late to read that long PM, but I will first thing and get back to you...

Facime

07-09-2006, 12:44 AM

Weez, Im a little buzzed and its a little late to read that long PM, but I will first thing and get back to you... ROFL, no problem man! I can be long winded, sorry :icon_redf

mazzer

07-09-2006, 02:19 AM

Allan_MA70

07-09-2006, 02:27 AM

Im Al... I like me kangaroos and wallabes... Sometimes I run around the out back with me Fosters beer!
http://i6.tinypic.com/1zf4ghd.jpg (http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/5725/nakedoldman11ob.jpg)

edit: please don't do that on a serious thread, some people surf from work or around kids and that's not appropriate - Bishop
Im the one that edited it the first time... It's a rubber "mask"... lol... R/M

holy shit talk about geting a post editied!

And Australians dont drink fosters... we just sell it to stupid yanks and keep the good stuff for ourselfs.

Big Wang Bandit

07-09-2006, 02:28 AM

LOLOLOLOL +1 to Allan

cjsupra90

07-09-2006, 04:22 AM

Nice work, i love it! I'd deffinitly be down for one depending on if and when the GB happens.

One thing that might be worth considering with any possible design changes is in the rear mounts, implementing a way to use the stock bolts, springs and E-clips locked into the brace just as they are on the Targa itself. the parts are cheap new from Toyota and therefor no loose bolts to loose or anything. Its a fairly simple tubular structure, or even better peices can be bought form toyota also and can be bolted or welded to the brace.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i9/chris1uz/MBN731C.jpg

Allan_MA70

07-09-2006, 05:16 AM

Nice work, i love it! I'd deffinitly be down for one depending on if and when the GB happens.[/IMG]

We are shiping the naked old man express to you now!

Allan_MA70

07-09-2006, 05:19 AM

Wow and the + rep keeps rolling in!

xarewhyayen

07-09-2006, 11:03 AM

Ha! +1 alan... please return rep!! im sad and its how i gauge what im worth in life. :) haha

(jk)

ValgeKotkas

07-09-2006, 11:21 AM

Wow and the + rep keeps rolling in!
Today is your lucky day:icon_razz

Facime

07-09-2006, 11:25 AM

Satan

07-09-2006, 12:01 PM

I had planned to do something like that from the very beginning...somehow we just fell short in the process...I'll look into putting that back in the design.

Tell me what you need for a group buy... At about the price you quoted, I'll be in for more than one.... (5-10). As in many other group buys, they will wish they jumped on it at this price range.

I'd like unfinished product, since I will likely customize each one (paint-wise).

Reign_Maker

07-09-2006, 12:52 PM

Im Al... I like me kangaroos and wallabes... Sometimes I run around the out back with me Fosters beer!
http://i6.tinypic.com/1zf4ghd.jpg

Damn Al, those plus ones just keep cummin in huh?

hehehe sucker... :love:

BTW: this GB is a go... Talked with Weez and he's gunna set up the GB thread... I really hope this goes through... I hope it goes smoothly...

Facime

07-09-2006, 01:26 PM

yes, thank you Reign Maker! The good news is a group buy thread is coming! the bad news is I would like to wait until I have the new version completed and have a firm price available to offer. Once I approve the new version, I will have him start making them.

Changes were already discussed but to summerize: The rear of the round bars will come futher out and incorporate the mount in it. The rear bar will incorporate gussets more like the front bar. I am going to try to either get the Toyota mounts (so the bolt will stay in place just like the factory targa) or make a replica of it. The front mounts will have an acorn nut welded to the bar so that you wont lose your nuts! :naughty: We are likely going to laser cut the supra logo into either the front or rear bar (please speak up if you have a preference).

ALL bars will be unfinished. I want to keep the initial cost down and it would just be too confusing to try to offer different paint/powdercoat options, and this way everyone can do exactly what they want to their own.

So stay tuned for the GB thread coming soon (hopefully by the end of the week)

daledoe

07-09-2006, 01:41 PM

That thing is sick!!!!! I wish I had a targa.

DyslexicSquirrel

07-09-2006, 01:58 PM

I'm so excited!!!!!!!!!

ValgeKotkas

07-09-2006, 02:00 PM

But I wish I could get something like it somehow...:icon_razz

Reign_Maker

07-09-2006, 02:19 PM

I wish I had a targa.
You can!
http://powers.com.ve/tienda/images/6524-21-lg.jpg

HIDPLANET

07-09-2006, 02:21 PM

I guess the grass is always greener on the other side.
I would have rather gotten a hardtop but I didnt have room to be picky.

daledoe

07-09-2006, 02:26 PM

You can!
http://powers.com.ve/tienda/images/6524-21-lg.jpg
Thay did that on veva la bam :biglaugh:

CTsupra

07-10-2006, 12:40 AM

Whats the point of having the targa on AND a brace... The targa itself is a brace...

Jake, i'll forgive you since you were buzzed at the time. :D

common sense dictates that having a brace that fits under the targa would be a big room saver in the hatch area, less of a hassle switching back and forth from targa to brace, and a time saver.

chriso

07-10-2006, 02:12 AM

Whoa....that's fuckin' cool !!! Count me in as well.

suprahero

07-10-2006, 11:57 AM

Do you kiss your mama with that mouth...................;)

I love this brace and can't wait to be the first or twentieth person on the GB list................lol

tekdeus

07-10-2006, 03:15 PM

What would an aluminum version cost? This with the spring-loaded bolts integrated would be the ultimate. I'd pay $175

mazzer

07-10-2006, 03:16 PM

What would an aluminum version cost? This with the spring-loaded bolts integrated would be the ultimate. I'd pay $175
i to would SERIOUSLY love an alum version. these things weigh enough as is

DyslexicSquirrel

07-10-2006, 04:16 PM

man... i'm in for whatever... that thing just looks nifty!!!

Facime

07-10-2006, 06:08 PM

For now Aluminum is not gonna happen. As for weight, the stock Targa top weighs 25lbs and the bar in its current form (GenerationI) weighs in at 18lbs, so some weight is already saved. Perhaps GenerationIII will be aluminum, but definately not GenerationII, sorry.

And for those of you staying tuned, expect the GB thread by the end of this week or early next week. (Sorry, but I want to have GenerationII ready to show before I set up the GB)

Wendigo

07-10-2006, 06:44 PM

All I ask is keep the price down

xarewhyayen

07-10-2006, 09:11 PM

I like the laser etch idea, and the idea of it being on the rear plate, in the center. I like your plans to keep it as cheap as possible, but still high quality... Youre doing a kickass job and you'll be famous for this haha. Congrats on owning the first of a soon to be classic. You should do a set amount and number them haha... limited edition bitches

Facime

07-10-2006, 11:26 PM

hehe, I like the idea of numbering them...lol

and I talked to my fabricator today, we will be doing a run of 20 because that happens to work out for a full sheet of 3/8'' steel. The laser cut Supra logo does add laser time, but he isnt sure right now how much cost it will work out to per item, hopefully not enough to raise the price of the final product significantly.

We discussed all the changes to it at length and I am taking my bar back to him tomorrow for templating and making the jig. We think we will have a template for all the parts by next monday, I expect to have a fully finished GenerationII bar on that following Friday (the 21st), at which time I will start up the group buy list. Expect to have finished bars start shipping 3 weeks from today (the 28th). Sorry it wont be sooner, but the guy is taking his first vacation with his wife and kids in a very long time.

Adjuster

07-11-2006, 12:27 AM

Don't laugh, but we used sawzall's to cut up the cars when I build limo's... (Just took a few blades that's all....) and it was dang loud, especially when cutting across the roof panel.

Too bad on the alloy option, perhaps in the future, but I rarely take my targa off the car anyway, but with this in place, I might do it more since I hate the cowl shake and crappy handling with no top in place.

Facime

07-11-2006, 01:22 AM

but I rarely take my targa off the car anyway, but with this in place, I might do it more since I hate the cowl shake and crappy handling with no top in place.

I havent put my Targa back on since the Portland meet (Saturday). I was the same way as you...I HATED how the car felt with the top off. Before I got it I dreamed of taking the top off and making a run to the coast (less than an hour for me)...wind in my hair (lol, ok well I sport a crew cut most of the time...but you get the idea). And the first time I took the top off and went for a drive I thought I broken something, or seperated a tire. I was severly disappointed, and rarely took the top off, and when I did it was only for around town at low speeds.

I decided then that I had to do something about it...so I came up with this bar (I need to come up with a cool name for it...I mean, we all know the "X-Brace" ...how about "WeezLWings - give your Targa a chance to fly!" ...ROFL...ugh!) Anyway, it solved the problem and I like how it looks on my car, and its unique, and so far has gotten some looks. I cant wait to start getting em out to you guys so you can enjoy it too!

Reign_Maker

07-11-2006, 01:38 AM

WEEZL-WINGS!!!

FTMFW!!!

Facime

07-11-2006, 02:05 AM

WEEZL-WINGS!!!

FTMFW!!!

you made me giggle like a schoolgirl!

CPT Furious

07-11-2006, 07:46 AM

How can we make sure that we are one of the initial 20 on the GB? I have a feeling these are going to go quick and I don't want to miss out!

ValgeKotkas

07-11-2006, 09:24 AM

WEEZL-WINGS!!!

FTMFW!!!

+10000000

jdub

07-11-2006, 09:31 AM

WEEZL-WINGS!!!

FTMFW!!!

LMAO :rofl:

Facime

07-11-2006, 12:04 PM

How can we make sure that we are one of the initial 20 on the GB? I have a feeling these are going to go quick and I don't want to miss out!

I dont know any other way to be fair about who goes on the list other than based on who signs up in the GB thread when I post it. Expect that around the 21st.

SupraOfDoom

07-11-2006, 12:11 PM

sweet

Reign_Maker

07-11-2006, 12:12 PM

Well, I personally hope the community stands behind it's "wants", because everyone WANTS one, but there have been times before when everyone "wanted" something and then when it came to fruition, alot of those wanters disappeared... But the same can be said on some of these group buy starters, where everyone wanted one, but the starter failed to come through, or has taken months and months to get the product, so long in fact, that people just lose interest or go another route...

My point is guys, Weezl has really stepped up on this, he's taken his own design, worked with a great fabricator and taken constructive input on design changes... WHEN these are made, I hope they sell like hot cakes, so he can work on other sweet ideas for our cars... Weez has some good ideas, we spoke briefly last night about some and I think this is going to be a great thing for this community... www.weezlwings.com haha! Better go snatch that domain name up Weez... :):):)

miekedmr

07-11-2006, 12:49 PM

GAH.. where is the NWS on this thread... (naked old man)

Bishop92t

07-11-2006, 01:04 PM

Fixed...

Facime

07-11-2006, 01:07 PM

Thanks RM, as it is I feel bad that its gonna take even a couple weeks before these start going out the door. As soon as I have the final version in my hands and the templates are made, we are going to rush into production. The first run will be 20, but believe me, if more people step up and send in money for these I will continue to have them made.

Just so you know, Im taking the money out of my own pocket to pay for the materials and laser cutting on the first run so that the first 20 who sign up for one of these will not have to wait for others to pay to get theirs. I also told my builder that if it will help him get the bars done faster I will personally drive down to Eugene every day and lend whatever hand he needs. It wont be the first time in my life I've held a broom, lol

Anyway, just know I wont let you guys down on this thing.

jdub

07-11-2006, 01:21 PM

I want one...and I don't back out ;)

ValgeKotkas

07-11-2006, 01:25 PM

sooo, da Bu1ld3r is Eugene?:icon_bigg Not that it matters, but my guestion
did you make any drawings too? I mean with measurments?

Rajunz

07-11-2006, 01:51 PM

Great job WeezL, it looks awesome. I would re-consider building these out of aluminum, consider what would happen in a hard crash..............
too bad you couldnt design one so that targa could go on top of it...
i agree with a previous poster that if its possible to have the targa fit over it without removing itI bought one from Kyle Simpson when he did his group buy. It mounts under the roof line so that it is permanantly mounted, the Targa does fit on without removing the bar. I really like the fact that it is a permenant structure. The downside is that it takes up about 4 inches of headroom, but I'm only 5'-8" tall so it's no big deal. Also, I had to cut openings in both the front and rear head panels then re-upholster them, which was quite a task.
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y278/rajunz/PDRM0780.jpg
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/12/web/540000-540999/540871_93_full.jpg

JoeC

07-11-2006, 01:52 PM

Pete it was nice meeting you at your house and at the meet. Any ways, I hope I can get one aswell but right now I am really tight on money trying to rebuild my bottom end. Though if the price is right I might have to borrow some from my brother.

Facime

07-11-2006, 01:55 PM

sooo, da Bu1ld3r is Eugene?:icon_bigg Not that it matters, but my guestion
did you make any drawings too? I mean with measurments?

I made a scale drawing of the measurements between mount points and depths of things yes. From there I made a cardboard template (but I admit my template making skills suck...I got work on that) At that point I gave the drawing and the template to the builder to "interpret" and...well...I let him have free reign to solve any issues that came up. When I went down there for final fit and assembly we discovered some issues in the design and solved them as we put it together. After a couple of days to reflect on the design and a couple of brainstorm sessions later we came up with the plans for the second generation "WeezLWings" which is what were working on getting made for the group buy. Also because the scale of the project went from a "one off" to a small production run, we ramped up the manufacturing process to include laser cut pieces instead of hand cut with a plasma torch.

So to answer your question, yes I made drawings and such, but we are far beyond those at this point.

Jspec7m88

07-11-2006, 01:57 PM

:nono:...It's beautiful...too bad I'm hardtop.......;)

I'm assuming this prevents the horrible "flex" in the body that is produced when driving?

Facime

07-11-2006, 01:59 PM

I would re-consider building these out of aluminum, consider what would happen in a hard crash....

Can you please explain to "metal ignoramous" like me why aluminum would be better in a crash than steel?

And as far as mounting under the targa, I understand all the arguements for that, but I still stand behind the idea that my bar is intended to "replace" the targa, and not be permanently attached. Also I didnt like the idea of having to modify the interior to allow for it. And one final note: I am already in the design phase of a solution to the "having your cake and eating it too" issue. I am taking an idea someone at the Portland meet gave me and moving forward on it. I dont want to give away the surprise yet...just know that in the near future, those who buy one of these bars will have the option of putting a roof over their heads at the same time.

ValgeKotkas

07-11-2006, 02:00 PM

So to answer your question, yes I made drawings and such, but we are far beyond those at this point.

Too bad, soo sad:icon_razz . Then if I would like to have one, I need to think out and measure everything myself:icon_mad: Happens:icon_bigg

Satan

07-11-2006, 02:19 PM

So when can I order mine....!?!?!?

I'd like it so that I could also keep it on while the targa is on and/or so that it will fit in the back where the targa sits.

I'm ready to see the final options and if it helps with a decision towards what I want, I can probably order 10+ (based on final cost).

Thanx,
Elvis

bigal0043

07-11-2006, 02:19 PM

cool cant wait to see what you come up with

dirtlord420

07-11-2006, 02:20 PM

yeah i dont want to miss out either.

Facime

07-11-2006, 02:23 PM

yeah i dont want to miss out either.

I promise you NO ONE will miss out. I'll keep having these made until no one will buy em anymore. It just might take a while if your like 60th in line...lol

Facime

07-11-2006, 02:52 PM

One thing that might be worth considering with any possible design changes is in the rear mounts, implementing a way to use the stock bolts, springs and E-clips locked into the brace just as they are on the Targa itself. the parts are cheap new from Toyota and therefor no loose bolts to loose or anything. Its a fairly simple tubular structure, or even better peices can be bought form toyota also and can be bolted or welded to the brace.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i9/chris1uz/MBN731C.jpg

Well guys (and gals?) this is not gonna happen at least not with stock toyota parts. The bracket that the nut/spring/clip goes into is $31.37/each (x2) adding WAY to much cost to the project. Also there are only 3 available in the state of Oregon, and needing 40 of them for the first run is NOT gonna happen! I'll keep woking on the idea and see if we can replicate the system in some way. Im sure I can figure something out, we wouldnt want anyone to lose their nuts! :naughty:

CTsupra

07-11-2006, 03:26 PM

And one final note: I am already in the design phase of a solution to the "having your cake and eating it too" issue. I am taking an idea someone at the Portland meet gave me and moving forward on it. I dont want to give away the surprise yet...just know that in the near future, those who buy one of these bars will have the option of putting a roof over their heads at the same time.

...ANNNNNNND WE HAVE A WINNAR!!!!!

Ok, i'll buy one now :D
Count me in.

gp-7mgte

07-11-2006, 03:27 PM

Im in for a group buy, looks sweet.

speed

07-11-2006, 03:28 PM

you sir have a PM.

Satan

07-11-2006, 08:17 PM

....forget about everyone else's nuts....:biglaugh:

Anyways here are my targa bars (Dean Marcum's groupbuy, I think). The attached pics show the bolt (which uses the stock targa tool) for the back, and the nut that used with the stock bolts up front. I keep them together like this, whenever I take them off the car.

There's a washer/holder there that's been keeping things in place (I've not had to replace any of the hardware).

For pennies, you could even give the buyers extra hardware (including the bolt-holder deal)... maybe they can get the option to purchase a second set of hardware (if they're that worried).

Just need the holes to be right and line up.... you can get the hardware just about anywhere. Hell, my sister is a salesperson for a manufacturer/supplier of nuts & bolts.... I might be able to do sumthin' for ya....

Facime

07-12-2006, 01:45 PM

Yeah Satan, I dropped off my bar back at the builders so he could get started on the jig and templates, and we discussed the bolt situation and he said it wont be any problem to have the bolts stay integrated into the bar. There will be an acorn nut tacked to the front mount location, and the back mount will have an allen bolt (or whatever they are called) spring and clip just like the stock roof.

Also, Im going to impose a 1 bar per person limit for at least the first round of 20. I dont think it would be fair to have people buy more than one and leave some people getting none. But like I said I will have as many made as people want, but you will likely have to wait a few runs to order a quantity of 5-10.
It's just me and my builder making these and he has a regular full time job as well.

Rajunz

07-12-2006, 02:48 PM

Can you please explain to "metal ignoramous" like me why aluminum would be better in a crash than steel?............I don't think aluminum would be a wise choice from a safety standpoint. In a severe crash that structure would probably fail and afterall it's only inches from the driver's head.
Think Liability!

Without regurgitating alot of BS, aluminum usually requires 50% or more thickness to have the same "strength-equivalent" as steel. Aluminum requires larger welded joints for them to be as strong, usually gusseted. Most of all steel will deflect alot more than aluminum before reaching it's point of fatigue, thus allowing it to absorb alot more energy than aluminum.

An easy way to think of it is pound per pound an aluminum structure would be stronger than steel, but think of how much larger that structure would have to be.

Once again, great job on the WeezL Wings, this is a much needed part for the community and props to you for coming up with a solution. I'll send a few friends to this link and I'm sure they'll have to have one.

89jdm7m

07-12-2006, 02:56 PM

I promise you NO ONE will miss out. I'll keep having these made until no one will buy em anymore. It just might take a while if your like 60th in line...lol
all i care about is that i have a chance to buy one :D

SupraDreamPDR

07-12-2006, 03:28 PM

Great looking product... waiting for the pix of the GenII.

xarewhyayen

07-13-2006, 10:10 AM

Ill definately be checking every day for the start of the GB thread so i can be right up top of the first 20 list. I was 2nd to reply to this original post so hopefully i can catch #2 on the GB list :).

Satan

07-13-2006, 10:54 AM

Might as well start taking deposits (so long as you know you can deliver)....

That way you're not gonna go thru all the effort, just to have only a few go thru with the deal...

My Paypal is ready....

Facime

07-13-2006, 11:34 AM

Reign_Maker

07-13-2006, 12:36 PM

dont you think I should wait until I have the second gen bar ready to show, and have a firm price on the product before I take anyones money? I do, Im willing to lose a few interested parties because it took a couple weeks, rather than have people get all bent out of shape 'cause they didnt have all the info when they sent me money.

Dont worry, its all gonna happen, please just be patient for another week!You're doing the right thing... Wait till you have everything in line... Dont take on too much too soon too fast... If some people have to wait a lil longer, it'll be worth it, for you and them...

bigal0043

07-13-2006, 12:44 PM

it just builds the anticipation which is good and bad ;)

Satan

07-13-2006, 02:50 PM

^^ true.

suprahero

07-17-2006, 11:56 AM

Hurry the F up Weezl..........................JK. I can wait as long as it takes. I am going to buy one though..........Just keep us posted with any new developments...............lol

Facime

07-17-2006, 01:40 PM

Hurry the F up Weezl..........................JK. I can wait as long as it takes. I am going to buy one though..........Just keep us posted with any new developments...............lol

Well, unfortunately our timing was just bad, because my builder was gone on vacation from Thursday to yesterday. But he assured me he would be all over this as soon as he got back. I havent confirmed this yet but he was supposed to have left something with the laser cutter to have a test run made for me to look at early this week. Once I approve that piece then we're having the full run cut and at the same time he will be finish welding the protoype generation II bar up so I can take photos and we can start putting names on the list then.

Remember this as well, I am covering the cost for a run of 20 out of my pocket, SO, as soon as someone pays for one, I ship one...no need to wait until we have 20 on the list.

Expect a more exciting update this coming Friday!

JustAnotherVictim

07-17-2006, 01:43 PM

Sounds good.

SupraJDS

07-17-2006, 04:17 PM

Can't wait

jetjock

07-17-2006, 06:17 PM

That's a nice looking design Weezl. I'll be in for one of these. Since I used to live in Corvallis I'm up there fairly often so you won't have to ship it. How soon do you think they'll be done? I'm assuming it'll come unfinished so it can be painted to match?

Facime

07-17-2006, 08:02 PM

How soon do you think they'll be done? I'm assuming it'll come unfinished so it can be painted to match?

yes they will be unfinished, ready for your own paint/powdercoat/whatever.

and I expect to be able to start shipping these a week from this Friday...but please wait for the Group buy thread coming soon for all the updated information.

suprahero

07-17-2006, 10:27 PM

Usually I reserve this smilie for either JetJock or IJ, but for just this one time, I'm giving it to a mere mortal. Weezl, this is for you...............:bowdown:

Good job Weez. Hope everything goes smooth for you on this GB. I know I've got my paypal ready willing and able...............lol

suprahero

07-19-2006, 04:13 PM

When you say coming soon. How soon is soon? Hopefully everything is still moving forward. I can't wait to see the finished product and get one in my car.............lol

Facime

07-19-2006, 06:10 PM

When you say coming soon. How soon is soon? Hopefully everything is still moving forward. I can't wait to see the finished product and get one in my car.............lol

Well, so long as the world doesnt stop rotating, and the earwig in my brain doesnt chew through something important...I would say this friday evening.

Inygknok

07-19-2006, 08:43 PM

I must say that you did a kick ass job with the brace, and that I'm glad that I took the time to read this while I kept trying to gather the classes online for university :). I just hope that you do at least give some sort of announcement on Friday since I'll be at a friend's house for a while, therefore having access to a PC. Otherwise, I just might miss out on the GB for lack of a PC back at home still (won't have a new one until August).

Anyhow, can you at least give us a fair estimate about how much it will cost? I need to know how much $$ I need to borrow for the piece and for S&H here to Puerto Rico. I won't be getting more cash until August and I don't want to miss out on this great GB (would be my first too)!!!

Facime

07-19-2006, 09:22 PM

Anyhow, can you at least give us a fair estimate about how much it will cost? I need to know how much $$ I need to borrow for the piece and for S&H here to Puerto Rico.

Answered via PM

bo3232000

07-19-2006, 09:40 PM

Pls email me a price w/ ship to ga...very interested!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

kwnate

07-19-2006, 09:41 PM

I like it so much I just traded my targa supra for an Iroc with t-tops. It's clean, just not my style. Good luck with the group buy, sounds like a lot of interest!

Facime

07-20-2006, 01:38 AM

I like it so much I just traded my targa supra for an Iroc with t-tops. It's clean, just not my style. Good luck with the group buy, sounds like a lot of interest!

Guys, this is not a group buy thread, and I cant tell you how much they are yet, and Im not going to calculate shipping until I know exactly how much they weigh and what size box I need for them. Please just wait a couple more days.

kwnate

07-20-2006, 08:11 AM

Well good luck if it becomes a group buy then...

Facime

07-20-2006, 01:47 PM

Well good luck if it becomes a group buy then...

If? Im pretty sure you meant "when" but thanks...

Jake I changed my mind, go ahead and pop a lock on this thread. I think its served its purpose and there is nothing new to add to this.

Within the next couple of days, I will be posting with the information on the GenerationII "WeezLWings". I will have pics, shipping information and the official GB list. until then please dont post in this thread until Jake can lock it.