All of the RX7's remaining sound proofing and firewall insulation has been removed from inside the cab as well as the underside of the floorpan. While the A/C and blower system were out, the A/C coil was removed for weight savings (per the Improved Touring rules... “Air conditioning systems may be removed in whole or in part").
The roll cage mounting areas have been prepped for the pads. All seam sealer and paint is removed to promote the best welding environment and penetration possible. In addition to perimeter welding, the pads will be plug welded to tie them into as many of the frame elements as possible. The IT rules limit the pad size to 100 square inches with a minimum thickness of .080 for welded cages. Our plates are not just merely slapped down and welded. It's a long process that involves quite a bit of studying the factory framework of the car and tieing it together with the pad in such a way as to provide the largest pad possible that provides an advantage in structural rigidity without waisted weight. Vertical and boxed elements are utilized whenever possible. When completed, all pad measurements are noted with square inch totals for any potential protests (While fitting the pad templates, the floorpan of the car usually looks like a geometry final exam!).
The stock gas tank and spare tire well have been removed and will be replaced by the Fuel Safe fuel cell and mounting structure from the previous car.
Next up... 8 pads and a main hoop!