Have been thinking of adding what I "thought" was a roll bar to my '03 GT convertible. Started looking the other day and what I'm seeing is some are called "roll bars". Some are called "roll bar styled light bars". And some are called "styling bars".
So what are they, and are they worth investing in?

 

from my understanding, a roll bar is a piece of steel tube that has the strength to protect you should you roll over, a light bar is usually a plastic version that has a rear brake light, but isnt structrually sufficient enough to protect you in event of a roll over. I hope that answers the question

as for being worth it, if I was going to have a converitble, id get one, they break up some of the nothingness that comes when the top and windows are down, and I think they look pretty good as well

 

Roll bars often gives the car a far more "sturdy" feel, which is lost when removing the top in the convertible. I personally don't like the look of them, but do think that a well made roll bar is worth putting on for the safety benefits. I'm one who would rather have safe than weight savings any day.

 

That brings up a couple more thoughts:
1. At least "some" of the ads I've seen, claim that the bars are made of stainless steel with a plastic cover, so wouldn't they offer at least a degree of support?
2. If you get one with the built-in LED brake light, I suppose it shines on the inside of the car when the top is up, right? Don't think I'd like that.
3. In many states, you can only have one high-mount brake light. If you install this one, you'd have to disconnect your OEM one but, it's only visible when the top is down. Is this something cops would bust your ***** about?

 

I have a 'light bar' sans the actual light, so I am not sure what you'd call it... LOL! But I love the look! And I didn't want the extra brake light either, so I got the CDC bar without the light... At the time, it was a special order, but I do believe you can order it this way now... There are also a couple other brands (Aeroform, etc...) that do not have a brake light either...

As for your questions...

1. I definitely felt the body stiffen up when I intsalled mine... Especially around corners...

2. There are kits that have the light shut off when the top is up... I believe WebElectric makes one...

3. I have not a clue...

 

The only way it provides and safety benefits is if it is a full bar that goes down and welds or bolts into the floor. Most light bars whether that have steel inside of the or not just mount to the plastic where the back side windows are. Even though it might have steel tubing in a roll over it would break where its mounted. Havent seen any that mount like a roll bar.

Do not know anyone that has had a problem with law enforcement. In my opinion an extra brake light provides more safety. But you can always check with your local agency for specific laws for you locality. And never seen a state trooper have a problem with them. But the front window banners....thats a different story!

 

I have a styling bar in my car right now. I bought a light bar from CDC though, to be installed. This has the 3rd brake light where my other one did not. They are just for looks. They say when you buy it, not for roll over protection!

I did not get the cut/off switch. My top is down about 98% of the time though! I love the looks of them!

 

Here's a statement about the light bars that I lifted from a vendor's website:


Some things about our Mustang light bars:

• High quality, attention to fit and finish of the light bar.
• A simplified light bar installation process.
• All light bars exceed in fitment. The light bars have been shaped to fit the curves and natural lines of the vehicle to provide a factory fit.
• The high mounted LED light provides added safety with the highly visible taillight.
• If rain should attempt to spoil your cruise in early spring no fear. The factory top effortlessly fits over the light bar and the Classic Light Bar does not interfere with any original factory functions.
• The light bar is constructed of a sturdy 1 ¼" round steel tube, with a 1/8" wall thickness. The polyurethane mold is then wrapped in vinyl. The bar simple bolts to the B pillar for a sturdy mount and also stiffens the body.
• With in a couple hours your Mustang will be ready for the next Mustang convertible day.

I guess, even though they may be fairly solidly constructed, they probably do not offer any real roll-over protection. I can see how they might offer some value as a body stiffener though.

 

Although I probably wouldn't trust mine to protect me in a roll-over, I would think that it's better than stock piece/lack there-of, so it may provide SOME safety.

But, in the end, it's called a styling bar for a reason.


BTW, like Iceknyght, I have no 4th brake light in mine as well. Hence, "styling" bar, not "light" bar (and yes, I know my sig says otherwise)

 

Can anyone recommend a company that has experience installing light bars in the MD/VA area? I have called many body shops (and Ford dealerships) with no luck. I have a '23 EcoBoost Mustang. Thanks

 

Welcome!


If this is The Style of Light Bar You Are Seeking These are an Easy Install! Any Competent Shop Should Be Able To Handle It. Perhaps They Are Not Understanding What You Are Wanting Done! Anyhoo if This is What You Are Seeking Check Out The Install Vid!

You are A Bit Off Course in Your Posting Section But No Worries If This Helps!

You Could Print Out The Instructions At The Link and Take To a Body Shop To get an Install Quote as Well!

https://www.cjponyparts.com/classic-...roduct-install

Kc