dbbarron

I've seen many SPBs with the rear bumper cover cutout for wire mesh. I also note the rule permitting this.
However, it seems as though the rear bumper impact bar has also been removed in these instances as I can see through the mesh to parts behind the impact bar.
First, has the impact bar been removed or am I missing something?
Second, where is this permitted in the rules? In this also permissible in stock class.
Third, what is the safety effect of removing the rear impact bar?

trygve

1) Yep, you are looking at removed bumper bars. It is VERY common if not ubiquitous. With the mounting hardware, they have significant weight.
2) It is permitted. The wording / punctuation of the rules was a little vague, but I saw a thread or rules clarification recently that made it clear. Paraphrasing, the old rule said "may remove and replace" (does that mean must replace if removed?), and now it says "may remove, and may replace" (may remove without replacement). Replacing being with a different/lighter kind of bar.
3) Clearly, the bars protect the car. Radiators, exhaust, transmission seem more vulnerable without the bar in a slightly-more-than-minor impact. As for driver safety, I'm not sure. The car still has crumple zones, and unlike in a street car, we're caged.

PLNewman

Atlanta Speedwerks has developed a lightweight impact bar. Check with Todd Lamb. <todd@atlspeedwerks.com>

Lemming

Yes, according to Walt F., it can be removed and does not have to be replaced. I removed mine and installed a lighter weight steel bar.

dbbarron

Thanks all! I am running an F-Stock 986; however, want to remove the bumpettes and install the mesh like a SPB.
I was looking at SPB pics for guidance and noted the missing impact bar.
I don't need the weight savings as I'm under at this point, but good to know.
Pretty sure Stock rules permit this mode:

"Rulebook: ​​​​​​F Stock: Spoilers and bumpers/air dams are free providing they do not exceed maximum factory body width by any
amount, maximum factory body length by more than 1 inch, or maximum spoiler height of the vehicle by more
than 6 inches."

Streak

I had a nerf bar welded in front and back. Just to protect the mechanicals in minor impact.

Lemming

I see many racers that have removed and/or replaced the front metal bumper, but I do not see that in the rules?

dbbarron

From the 2018 PCA rulebook for the rear - don't see anything for front :
"SPB: Rear bumper cover, license plate area may be cut out to 27” wide by 7” tall maximum. Tow hook hole
maximum 6” x 3”. The rear metal bumper may be removed, and a steel reinforcement added in its place."

seanseidman

You definitely need some reinforcement, otherwise any rear contact will destroy the exhaust system