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Re: Newbie with plus 2 project

PostPosted: Thu Nov 15, 2012 10:04 am
by Hal
If the stock roof panel is a simple un-ribbed sheet of GRP, I think a properly designed sunroof with a wooden or metal frame would very likely increase the torsional stiffness of the roof panel as an isolated element. The part removed for the sunroof is about flat....so very little torsional strength.

If so, you're hardly likely to reduce body rigidity by replacing it with a structural frame which will itself have some resistance to torsional stress if it's properly made.

Re: Newbie with plus 2 project

PostPosted: Fri Nov 23, 2012 1:36 pm
by tinker
The wooden frame on my webasto sunroof was fixed through the roof with about a 60 countersunk wood screws. The underside of the roof, unlike the outside and the wooden frame, is not nice and smooth. When i removed the outer part of the sunroof it could be clearly seen that the roof was distorted, out of shape. When the wood frame was removed the roof returned to its natural shape. When refitting the frame i put a layer of body filler on top of the wood and gently pulled it up in to place with a screw in each corner, once the filler had gone off i fixed it all round. The roof shape is now perfect, with the wood frame in proper contact with the fiberglass. Will post a photo when i get a minute.

Tony

Re: Newbie with plus 2 project

PostPosted: Sat Nov 24, 2012 11:05 pm
by kstrutt11
Take a look at one with the winscreen out, the a pillars have all the strength of a matchstick, with the screen in the roof helps damp scuttle shake but it can't carry much load like on a steel car.

Re: Newbie with plus 2 project

PostPosted: Sun Dec 16, 2012 8:56 pm
by ianthomson72
Hi Sam,

How are you getting on with your project +2 ?
I've had mine for over 30 years now and most of the time it's been off the road for long periods for one reason or another. After a while it can become a problem to keep motivated - especially in the cold.
I'm based in Edinburgh so we're neighbours by forum standards.

Regards

Ian Thomson

Re: Newbie with plus 2 project

PostPosted: Mon Dec 24, 2012 11:21 am
by sam tex
Ian

Slowly would be accurate ! I have fitted one new cill member this month and the other will be done next month.

I have the engine stripped and plan to contact an engine builder in Dundee early next year to purchase some parts to freshen it up as there was no serious wear.

I have managed to source a good replacement sun roof which I will store as fitting this is a long way off.

I am still undecided if I should pull the body off the spyder chassis.

sam tex