Hardtop For ITA Miata?

[Simon T.]

Is a hard top mandatory for an ITA Miata? Or any IT(ITA, ITU) or SM? Thanks!

Simon

[Greg Amy]

Nope. But note that convertible cars come under a different set of scrutiny for rollcage preparation; may negate the ability to install a hardtop in the future without significant rollcage mods... - GA

[RacerBowie]

Nope. But note that convertible cars come under a different set of scrutiny for rollcage preparation; may negate the ability to install a hardtop in the future without significant rollcage mods... - GA

And Miatas are a LOT slower without a hardtop. A lot.

[Speed Raycer]

Do you have to use a factory HT if you go w/ a hardtop? Could have sworn I've seen a Carbon Fiber top running in ITA once a few years back...

[Greg Amy]

IT rules allow "aftermarket equivalent" parts. If you're gonna use a non-OEM Miata hardtop, better make damned sure it's 'equivalent' (I suggest a carbon fiber version will be lighter....)

[Simon T.]

Where are the rules for a open top IT car on roll cages? All I could find in the GCR was the same for all cars, except Prod classes for open cockpit cars. I'd like to eventually add a hardtop, just need the car legal for drivers school.

[JeffYoung]

You should read the GCR but if I recall correctly you have to have your helmet two inches lower than the main hoop.

[seckerich]

You should read the GCR but if I recall correctly you have to have your helmet two inches lower than the main hoop.

I understand TR8's have the same problem with wind catcher cages!! Sorry Jeff, could not resist.

[Speed Raycer]

Better buy, beg or borrow a HT for the cage installation and the school. No hardtop= the 2" clearance rule for the helmet to the top of the rear hoop. The problem with that is that usually, Miata tops wont fit on a hoop w/ 2" of clearance, especially if you're over 5'8"

[Greg Amy]

Better buy, beg or borrow a HT for the cage installation and the school.

+1.

See GCR 9.4.B.1.b, where it describes the requirements for the main roll hoop. In a nutshell, an open-top car generally has to have a higher main roll hoop than an enclosed car. With the Miata, that would be too high to install a hardtop later. You're MUCH better off borrowing a hardtop now, having your car built that that and running the school with it, then parking the car until you can afford to buy your own hardtop (or, invite the borrower to all of your events, and you guys swap 'em out between session...<grin>)

GA

[rhygin]

Some good info on this subject in the following post....

https://improvedtouring.com...ad.php?t=22777

[Simon T.]

^Good thread, thanks!