Roof rails

[Gary Perkinson]

Hey, everyone:
 
 I seem to remember this topic being discussed at some point in the past, but I searched the site and the thread doesn't seem to exist anymore.
 
 So.......what's the deal with roof rails? I'm planning to run in C/CGALT, so I have to have them, but the rule seems slightly unclear: "The roof rails may extend from the base of the windshield to the base of the rear window." Okay, but where are they *required* to run from, if you have to have them? What types of metal can be used? And just to be clear, are we basically talking about a 1/2" to 3/4", 90-degree, L-shaped piece of metal welded to both outer edges of the roof and running from front to back?
 
 Thanks in advance--
 
 Gary  

[jimmy six]

Required to be on the roof of the car. Most are only on the top, not on the windows but that's your choice.  
 
 States metal. Your choice.
 
 Welded? States attached, your choice.
 
 They do not need to be L-shaped but that's the easiest
 
 They are there to break the air going over the cars roof and keep it from lifting in a spin.

[Gary Perkinson]

Thanks for the clarification. Maybe I'll just make a pair out of aluminum foil and stick 'em on with Scotch tape....  

[Bob Drury]

Gary, I made mine out of l inch x 1 inch x 1/16th aluminum angle which I purchaised at Home Depot, and formed them with a Shrinker/Stretcher from Eastwood (about $300 bucks). Then I bolted them through the roof with 3/16th buttonhead s.s. bolts.   Bob Drury  B/CFALT  #394

[RichFox]

Mine are .562 X .562 X .062 aluminum angle from Ace Hardware. Held down with sheetmetal screws. Bent it as I put it on. Been there for better than 20 years now, guess it's alright.

[RichFox]

Ment to add they start at the top of the whindshield and run to the top of the hatch back. This is on a Vega,

[Gary Perkinson]

Guys: Thanks for all the input and ideas--very helpful, as always....
 
 Gary

[dwarner]

"I made mine out of l inch x 1 inch x 1/16th aluminum angle..."
 ***********************************
 Bob,
 
 Why would you build a roof rail of 1" when the rulebook clearly states 3/4" is maximum?
 
 Dan

[Bob Drury]

Dan,  Sorry, its those damn glasses again... 3/4" she is matey...........

[SFC Rashley]

Dear Sir,
 I just called the Roush boys. If your over 200 mph, use .60 min and go no more than 1/2" in heighth. Otherwise, they will and do cause drag.

[SFC Rashley]

Gary, Are you building one for 2005? Your questions match mine perfectly. I compete in drag racing, but have always wanted to go REAL fast. I have the rule book for 2004 and have poured over it. What race are you shooting for and when? I'm eye balling the East Coast guys too. What club do I join? I'm VERY new at this game, but am very serious about taking a record. My math indicates that I can with a gear change. This forum is a GOD SEND!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Gary Perkinson]

Hey, Tony:
 
 Welcome to the forum, from another LSR newbie. The NMRA's a great circuit--what are you running there? My goal right now is to run the Pinto at SpeedWeek in '06, although if possible I would like to run at least once at Maxton before that. If you already have a drag car up and running, you've got a lot fewer headaches ahead of you than I do    
 
 Good luck!
 
 Gary