Firstgens.com

I'm getting ready to install the roll cage in my 70 Nova and I am still undecided on wether or not to install the forward struts (the bars that go out the firewallto the sub frame). I've seen a lot of fast cars that don't have then and a lot of car that are wheelstanders that don't have them. What are your thoughts? I am leaning towards not installing them, why carry the extra weight. Give me your pros and cons.

Triangulation is recommended, but not required, unless fiberglass fenders/wheelwells are being used.

The 'steel' front sheet metal would be hypotenuse.
The front struts would certainly reinforce the frame/unibody.

JMT's.

No doubt it would add some stiffness to the front subframe. I don't plan on standing the car on the rear bumper, so what advantage will the forward stuts provide? I have solid body mounts, so the subframe shouldn't sag much if any. I guess what I'm asking iswill I see better performance with or without the forward struts? Oh and the car in question will spend 99% of it's time on the street.

Leave them off.99% race car put them in.

ya, i agree, leave them off, unless you got a high dollar mid seven car..

The goal is only low 10's upper 9's

WHATS THE SPECS ON YOUR NOVA??

For a low 10 second car you do not need them. They are a pain to put in on a street car also.

The car is still in the project stage. It's a 1970 Nova, 400ci Dart block based 8-71 blower, Dart 230cc Pro 1 Platinums heads ported, custom ground solid flat tappet, etc... The suspension is done, Caltracs, split monos, mini tubbed with 325/50/15 Mickey drag radials on Street Lite wheels, adjustable shocks on all 4 corners. Ford 9" with 3.50 gears and Detroit Locker. Low friction front suspension bushings, frame connectors. TH400 tranny, will have a 3500 converter. You can see the build pictures if you follow the link in my signature. I need to install the cage and do some body and paint work. Feel free to ask questions.

ROYCE, SOUNDS LIKE A NICE RIDE, I DONT THINK I WOULD RUN THEM FORWARD THE STRUTS..IS YOUR FIREWALL STOCK OR IS IT SMOOTH OR SHEET METAL??