Creative way to connect factory soft top to tub w/o drilling holes?

[SouthBostonFJ40]

The hardest part about making a cage that is the same shape as the bows is getting the radius of the tubing to match the radius of the bows as it curves over the truck. You cannot bend tubing that is thick enough to act as support in a rollover at the same radius as the thinner diameter bows without kinking the tube. My thoughts were to do exactly as the OP did, but to then add a thinner bar that maches the radius of the bows to outside bend. This would take up any slack in the top and when the top is off, these could act as a handle to climb up on to the truck or as a tie down point.

Here is a crude picture of what I am talking about.

 

[woytovich]

I agree... a hybrid: real cage + additions for the FST would be the ticket. I will be adding a MetalTech family cage to my 40 soon and I hope to run a FST too. I will be looking at this in depth later in the winter to see what might be able to be done. Maybe some removable (or not) tubes/brackets for the FST that attach to the cage...

 

[myquestoyota]

This would take up any slack in the top and when the top is off, these could act as a handle to climb up on to the truck or as a tie down point.

Here is a crude picture of what I am talking about.

That is an excellent idea! I like the point about tie-downs.

 

[duffontap]

That is an excellent idea! I like the point about tie-downs.

X2 World's awesomest canoe rack.

 

[KY Longhunter]

Brandon61 well done! I've got a 62 that needs bows.

 

[brandon61]

Absolutely our cage [Heavy Duty Bow Kit] could be improved upon to suit each persons needs. Tie-In to frame,1" tube on corners of bows to tighten radius for better soft top fit and possibly a bend in the a-pillar upright.We solved our main objectives by not having to drill into the tub for the twist locks, one piece takeoff, stronger than a OEM bow kit and the best thing about a 40 [IMHO], ability to use the long jump seats for our four kids.

 

[SSCR]

I think the cage you have Brandon is fantastic! You or someone should market this, I think it would be ideal for the guys on the fence about drilling their tubs or guys looking to upgrade to a decent cage.

 

[Stumpalama]

It is a cool, innovative solution, no doubt.
I also feel a belt rail system similar to the Kayline/STC design is a great idea for those of us with interior cages.