DIY Network

G-Bar Stabilization System: Introduction From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-209

	The project car: a 1994 Acura Integra that's already been outfitted with some custom carbon-fiber.
	Previous performance modifications on the Integra include short-ram intake, free-flow header and custom exhaust system.
	Media Watch a video on the project car for this Tricked Out episode

NOTE: Images on this page may be enlarged for enhanced viewing simply by clicking on them.

In this episode of Tricked Out, host Andrew Totolos installs a G-bar stabilization system on an 1994 Acura Integra. In this first segment he introduces the project car and, along with guest expert Kevin Ford of Lokar Motorsports, gets the project underway by installing a rear-pillar stabilizer bar. (Lateral stabilizers and 4-point harness are installed in later segments in this episode.) Before beginning the installation, Andrew and Kevin discuss chassis flex and how stabilization can improve handling and performance.

Materials used in this episode:

In addition to standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, torque wrench, etc.), tools and materials used in this episode include:

Pillar bar
Lateral bar
Harness bar
Racing harness
G-bar hardware
Scissors
Painter’s tape
Permanent marker
Rotary tools
Safety glasses
Particle mask
Door-sill gasket
Panel removal tool

Important: Included in this summary are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of upgrade-kit you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection and ear protection and follow proper safety precautions when working with power tools or pneumatic tools. Also wear eye protection any time you are working underneath a vehicle.

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The Project Car: 1994 Acura Integra

With Honda’s engineering and Acura’s fine finishing work, there’s no doubt that the Integra is one of the hottest factory cars to get you started in automotive performance and body enhancements. This 1994 Acura Integra belongs to Nate Roberts who is clearly a fan of carbon fiber. The exterior features a carbon-fiber hood, fenders and rear hatch, carbon fiber mirrors and a carbon-fiber fuel-filler door. The Integra rolls on 18" stock with cross-drilled rotors and adjustable coil-over struts. The engine sports a short-ram intake and free-flow header and custom exhaust system. Inside, the carbon fiber continues with dash overlays, custom r door inserts, a carbon fiber shift knob, e-brake handle, rear deck lid and a carbon fiber headliner.

	Guest Kevin Ford of Lokar Motorsports.

G-Bar Chassis-Stabilizing System

After the suspension and tires are upgraded on a sport-compact car, chassis flex can still limit the vehicle’s handling characteristics. The uni-body structure of the Integra isn't stiff enough to compete with track-tuned competitors. So as a further upgrade, a chassis stabilization system is installed along with a harness bar and four-point racing harnesses for the ultimate in safety and control on the track.

According to performance specialist Kevin Ford, the stabilization system uses a series of aluminum bars that bolt in using the factory shoulder-harness mounts on the B-pillar and C-pillar. The rear bumper mounts are also utilized. The system ties together the upper and lower portions of the car, resulting in a stiff, rigid chassis facilitating tighter cornering. The system is available for various models on the Integra and Civic hatchback platforms as well as for other hatchbacks.

DIY Difficulty Rating for This Project: We gave this a difficulty rating of 2 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale. Experienced gear-heads should have no problem. The stabilization bars simply bolt in. The only tricky custom work is trimming out the deck lid -- which is optional since some drivers opt to simply remove the deck lid altogether.

Figure A

Materials and tools used in this segment:

17mm socket
Pillar bar
Required nuts, washers and screws

Steps

• The first step is to remove the front seats.

• With the seats removed, it’s time to get the rear pillar mounting brackets in. The pillar bar mounts to the c-pillar seatbelt mounting points above the rear seat (figure A).
  

• Pop off the seatbelt bracket cover with your hand (figure B) and then remove the bolt with a 17mm socket.

• Back off the retaining ring that secures the bolt to the seatbelt bracket. Then remove the spacer and the large washer (figure C).

  Figure B

  Figure C

  
  

• Slide the new mounting bracket on against the plastic trim piece (figure D). Then add the large washer, the star washer, the spacer, and finally reinstall the retaining ring.

• Screw the bolt into place (figure E), but leave it loose for now to allow some wiggle room when the lateral bars get installed.

• Repeat the procedure to install the other side in the exact same way.

  Figure D

  Figure E

  
  

  Figure F

• Note: It’s critical to ensure that any seatbelt bolts are installed properly. These will be torqued to the proper specification after the g-bar system is installed.

• Now that we have the brackets in we can install the rear pillar bar. Place the slide-tube on the bar (figure F) being careful not to scratch it.
  

  	Figure G
  	Figure H
  	Figure I

• Place the bar into position on one side and unscrew the clevis joint so they line up with the holes on the bracket on the opposite side (figure G).

• Install the hexhead bolts from front to back (figures H and I). Leave them loosely installed until all the parts are in.

Tricked Out Lingo: A clevis joint is a rigid articulating joint, also known as a "spherical rod end."

RESOURCES :

Special Resources for Tricked Out episode 209

Lokar Motorsports
Knoxville, TN
www.lokarmotorsports.com

Racing Innovations
Knoxville, TN
www.RacingInnovations.com

Topshop Co.
Mitchell, SD
www.topshopheadliners.com

Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guide: Import Cars (Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guides)
Author: Joe Pettitt
Order this book from Amazon.com.
Voyageur Press (October 2000)
ISBN: 1884089526

Honda & Acura Performance Handbook (Performance Handbooks)
Author: Mike Ancas
Order this title from Amazon.com.
June, 1999
Publisher: Motorbooks International
ISBN: 0760306699

Honda/Acura Engine Performance: How to Modify D, B and H Series Honda/Acura Engines for Street and Drag Racing Performance
Author: Mike Kojima
Order this title from Amazon.com.
April 2002
Publisher: HP Books
ISBN: 155788384X

Honda/Acura Performance Handbook: High Performance Modifications for Street and Drag Racing Applications
by the editors of Sport Compact Car Magazine
Order this title from Amazon.com.
November 1999
Publisher: HP Books
ISBN: 1557883246

GUESTS :

Kevin Ford
Lokar Motorsports
Knoxville, TN
Web site: www.lokarmotorsports.com