I know its probably more visual than functional as the rollbar is not real beefy, but it would probably make more of a difference if there was a mishap then none at all.

It was blasted but the left over chassis saver coating was a little goopey from sitting.. and then i tried to thin it out.. which didn't work out real well.

Anyway I'm on the fence installing it.. this is a non trail truck but it is a truck..I think it might look ok with it in there and keep with the theme as it seems to be a period correct rollbar, but no idea...

thoughts?

picture of said rollbar, spider web goes with it.

As the previous owner of that rollbar, I'll vouch for it not being the prettiest thing in the world. I'd put it in, despite that. Not so much for the rollover protection (although anything is better than the stock hard top), but for a place to mount shoulder belts, which will make a major difference in a wreck. If it matters, I'm 99% sure it's one of the Smittybilt bars. I put one that was exactly the same in my '73 somewhere around 1998.

X2 - Install it. You just never know when you might lay it on it's lid through no fault of your own. Some horrid driver cuts you off driving to Castle Rock for a BWB and you will be glad you did. Even if it just a little added protection.

Beauty is in the eyes of the beer holder! Just wrap a roll bar pad around it & no one will know. If you're not wanting to buy a kit find someone who's good with a sewing machine create a cover that velcro's on & you could change it according to the seasons. One could always resort to black electrical tape for that Broke & Resourceful Old School Look! Just remember to wrap bottom to top for water deflection & opposite directions for that "balanced look" when people are behind you at a stop light.

Seriously though any extra protection could count if some econo-box runs a red light & slides under you. Sometimes the littlest things can make the difference between walking away or a ride in the Cherries & Berries Bus.

I say install it.

sandblast and repaint it so you can sleep at night

It is an old Smittybuilt, for sure. I'd say install it and use it for shoulder belts, fire extinguisher, hi-lift, etc.

Do you need it to cruise with a soft top like I do with the half cab (or another framework mod of some sort). Depends on your plan I guess. I may do one just for that reason, and as insurance if I fall asleep on the trail. Ha!

.

So its anonymous, it will be installed!

i dont think the paint is that bad.. iam certainly not going to have it blasted again.. not worth it but maybe i will sand and touch it up. Guess i need to install that before the interior anyway...

I don't think you will ever regret having the roll bar. It is a great way to mount the seat belts, attach a bikini top, light, etc. Plus, it is with the time period of the truck. I have loved watching your build - it is going to be amazing.