I've already searched for the info and it seems like all the DIYs are all made in square tubing.

What would be the strongest ultimate size tubing and material to make a front/rear strut bar for my application? My car only has about 1.5 clearance between the motor and the hood. (not a honda)

The weight of the strut bar doesn't matter as I want it to be rigid.

Would the size below work ok? i'm thiking of making something like the neuspeed but better.

The diameter is 1.125"
Wall thickness is .190"
Inside diameter is .750"

Where would be the best place to purchase the tubing?

thanks!

 

That size listed would work, but is way overkill. You could use like .095" wall thickness. Call around to your local metal suppliers...they'll have it.

 

Its not just size, its the material. Make sure its at least a good quality steel. That sounds more like a sch40 3/4" pipe, they're usually welded and made of crappy chinese steel. Low carbon steel is used for strucural components, as its easy to weld and not as brittle as high-carbon. Chromoly is just better all the way around, but more expensive.

As far as rididity, I've never been a fan of the normal aftermarket bars, as 99% of them have thin metal everywhere and 2 hinges for universal fitment. You can actually get square/rectangular tube at a good price from local companies. Unless you *really* live out in the middle of nowhere, there's always a steel supplier fairly close.