Custom Bronco Half Cab

[Tricky Dick]

Transformation Induced Plasticity Steel (TRIP)	Transformation Induced Plasticity Steel (TRIP) 590, Transformation Induced Plasticity Steel (TRIP) 780, Transformation Induced Plasticity Steel (TRIP) 980	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA

Off topic a little, but I've seen that the 980 is what our frames are made of. I was uneasy watching guys weld sliders on. Fortiform does say it can be welded with the GMAW process so maybe it's not a big deal.

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[okbob]

Cab and bulkhead, keep it "simple" lol. Curious to see what you come up with.

 

[flip]

Off topic a little, but I've seen that the 980 is what our frames are made of. I was uneasy watching guys weld sliders on. Fortiform does say it can be welded with the GMAW process so maybe it's not a big deal.

I have not been able to find the type used for the frame. That said, there are several sectioning procedures in the WSM that show full welds and give the required bead length for each specific area. Apparently, it's OK to weld.

 

[Bdockins]

In. Im. In.

 

[BigMeatsBronco]

I think this transformation can be done with no welding

 

[Tricky Dick]

I have not been able to find the type used for the frame. That said, there are several sectioning procedures in the WSM that show full welds and give the required bead length for each specific area. Apparently, it's OK to weld.

I found the article again and it didn't specifically call out the frame, I guess that was my assumption. I'm guessing the Fortiform 980 is actually used on those hard pillars.

https://www.al.com/news/mobile/2020/11/fords-hot-new-bronco-built-with-alabama-steel.html

 

[Silver-Bolt]

Sorry, but this is just not true! These comments make me laugh. It is true that unitized body-constructed vehicles are engineered such that the body IS the entire structure (monocoque, such as an airframe) in modern day BOF engineering, the two systems WORK TOGETHER to achieve optimal torsional rigidity, strength and integrity of the vehicle. Drastically altering the body portion of the system WILL ruin the vehicle. Good luck.

You are right. Altering the cage will completely ruin the vehicle.

 

[Laminar]

Following for epicness.

 

[JoeSpeed]

By taking out the roll bar you are losing structural rigidity how are you making up for that? Also what about the side airbags?

who needs them, unnecessary added weight

 

[BigMeatsBronco]

I think we are waaaaayyyy past warranty with this already.

Just sayin'

Oh no need to worry, hacksawin yer cage won't make yer valves fail any faster...or ford to refuse replacement

 

[niterider006]

Man, I don't think this is going to work. But I want you to prove me wrong!

 

[mcinfantry]

After a bit more research, I've been able to determine that the roll bars ARE removable!
This is fantastic news for those few of us looking to do a pickup or half-cab. No need to Sawzall your shit up.

I'm very close to finishing up my own version of the half cab.

I'll post up when finished.

Who else out there would be interested in a BOLT-ON half cab that requires NO permanent modification to your steed? My setup would allow the trucks tops to be swapped out, you could have full top AND half cab and switch back and forth depending on your needs or style.

I love modded stuff! Do you have any other completed projects you have done? Just curious what directions those went

 

[1979]

So can OP go ahead and change the thread title? The roll bar is not, in fact, removable or modular.

 

[Tazn69Bronco]

Yes I've been in contact with BDS and their outsourced bodywork shop that did their Bronco as well....I'm all over this!
(They don't have the side airbags installed in theirs)

So when you spoke to these fine folks they didn't mention a willingness to do it again and/or a payment plan? haha

I am quite interested in what you come up with! Even if said rig became off road only it may suit my needs perfectly. When you build the top do you intend to make the front T tops removeable still or does that function have to go away to make the top stable?

 

[MNBigfoot]

Don't allow yourself to get talked out of this, by guys running 20 inch rims, on a $80 lift, with $800 mudflaps.

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