side impact beams

[artguy]

I have searched this forum and have not found anyone who has posted "how to remove the side impact beams". Does anyone have instructions on how to do this without messing up the outer doors appearance?

I have a drag car (10 pt cage) and I'm looking to shed more weight. I have already taken off everythnig that is on all of the lists. Car currently weighs 2810lbs. without driver.

 

[sawbones25]

Not mine, but a friends car...

He used a grinder and a cut off wheel to cut some of the metal off on the inside of the door. With enough room to get his arms and the tools in, he cut the bar in the middle, maybe a couple other spots also, then just peeled out the pieces.
Once you get in there you'll be able to see the mounting points. From there it shouldn't be too hard to figure out where to cut. Hopefully.

Let me know how it goes. I may try it this winter also...

 

[artguy]

Thanks sawbones. It'll probably be a couple of weeks before I do this. I'll try and let you know how it goes.

 

[artguy]

Here are instructions I received at crt-performance.

I've found that a Dremel tool with the fiberglass reinforced cutoff wheels works bests. The Dremel is easier to manuever in the confines of the door. Roll the window up and tape it in place so that the window regulator mechanism can be removed. Then cut the brace as close to both ends as possible. Be careful when you're close to through because the door skin is might thin and its possible to cut right through it very easily. Once the brace is free, it can be manuevered through one of the openings with some work. I've found it easier to remove one small section near the door handle on the inside skin and bring the brace out there though.