Anyone ever try a roof support?

[Koplitzzz]

Wondering if anyone has ever tried adding a support up underneath the roof.

I have an early '74 that sat out in the snow for many years, and has a soft spot in the roof (stretched). I've searched and read all the posts on this, and I have a replacement roof available, just started thinking that it might be easier to beef up the roof than all that drilling, cutting and welding.

I know the roof will need some bondo, just trying to keep it to a minimum, and think that strengthening it would be a good idea.

Some kind of U- or hat-channel type framing came to mind (think modern car hood underneath), but that would obviously hang down inside and the headliner would have to work around it. Not ideal.

I am considerating adding a thin plate "band" to the roof to stiffen it up, might have to use a couple thin strips because of the curve. Also might try bonding another roof up underneath, two layers might be good.

Anybody tried anything like this and have any suggestions?

[ZCurves]

The clearance inside the car is not that generous, any kind of U-Channel that you might devise could have you bumping your head! I would suggest concentrating on performing the roof transplant -which is heavily documented in this forum.

[Willoughby Z]

The clearance inside the car is not that generous, any kind of U-Channel that you might devise could have you bumping your head! I would suggest concentrating on performing the roof transplant -which is heavily documented in this forum.

Well said. I would suggest 'popping' the roof back up, dealing with any creases or paint damage, if there is any. Then if you don't like the results, go for the transplant...

[grantf]

When you say soft spot is it popping in and out, like a pop can? if you are going to do body work anyhow try to heat shrink the metal. Get it hot with a torch then quench it with a rag and cold water, not red hot just enough to make steam. Does this help?

[JLPurcell]

Not something I would do but if one were to want to run a support it would not pose a clearance problem if it were ran centerline front to back. JLP