I finally found a free weekend day to do the install...the bar had some scratches and a visible bend (paint was cracked - that kind of bend) along the front steel angle that goes along the doorwell. I carefully got that back to being straight like the other side, and proceeded. Upon arrival, I also didn't have wood on mine..just the paper and some bubble wrap, which is why some of the scratches and bends likely came about, but no worries - all can be fixed.
My car must have been tweaked, or somehow slightly different in dimension (first batch of cars? mine's an early 92) , as the bar was a bit more involved in getting it installed. The deck box wasn't an issue, but the brace and mount points were off enough that pushing/shoving/sitting on it, just didn't get it aligned enough to start the bolts. After getting the driver rear and shoulder anchor bolts started, I proceeded to the passenger side rear bolt...this required a major effort to get the mount point in alignment, but it eventually gave in. Eventually I had everything started except the passenger lap belt anchor...left the most accessible and bendable part for last, figuring I had it done. I had a buddy apply downward pressure, and got it nearly aligned (it was off approx 1'' to begin)...used a screwdriver to try and pry it the rest of the way, but apparently that didn't quite cut it...the bolt just didn't want to thread, and eventually the threads couldn't take the abuse any longer and stripped. So, I'll be stopping by Sears for a tap and die kit, and hopefully a large clamp that will align the last mount point so I can re-thread and finally get it 100% installed. I'll also pick up the spray paint, and a new 1.5" bolt.
I'd recommend you verify the mount points first, getting the brace aligned ( and slightly bending where required) first, and then installing. Also, start with the rear mount points, as they are least accessible (if you're re-installing the deck box). should eliminate any issues like I had.
Also, make sure you've got a helper handy, as they can help force the alignment enough to start the bolts correctly, and a 4" screw clamp will assist with the alignment of the shoulder anchors.
The bar/brace really is a great design...as mentioned in earlier posts, it's a perfect fit with the top, and at least for me, it'll pass the yardstick rule for DE events with the helmet on. Flash, great job...one of us had to have a few problems with the geometry, but that's the thing with the older P cars...each a little unique.
