"A" Pillars: A Question

I have never before noticed the change in the "A" pillar on the Big Healey. On my BT7 (first photo) the "A" pillar is completely flat while the "A" pillar on the later car (I believe a BJ7 in the second photo) has an offset at the bottom of the pillar. Just curious about the change. What purpose does it serve and why was it done?

Thanks!

Lin

Re: A curiosity question

Roll up widows started with BJ7, maybe that has something to do with it.

Re: A curiosity question

Marvin Gruber said:

Roll up widows started with BJ7, maybe that has something to do with it.

Click to expand...

I agree, I always thought it had to do with the roll-up windows. That said, looking at my roll-up window doors, I don't see why it was necessary... possibily additional structurally rigidty due to the additional weight?

And, who is that young guy laying under your BT7 in the first construction image?

Steve

Re: A curiosity question

Steve,
That would be me about 12-13 years ago when I still had some dark brown in my hair! Son John helping with the Toyota 5 speed fitment.

The roll up window explanation certainly seems plausible, and while not doubting that reasoning at all, I still wonder.
Lin

Re: A curiosity question

I've never had a BJ so just speculating here but it looks to me like like the door hinge line (pillar) is a lot more vertical than the roadsters - in the roadsters it is parallel to the door edge/opening.

I think it is related to the roll up windows because they got a lot heavier and it looks like the doors don't swing upwards as much. They would be easier to open and easier for those clever door stops to hold open - on my roadster they really struggle to hold the door open and I'd bet they would have a much harder time with the additional weight of the glass and hardware.

If I'm right, that would require the jog in the bottom so the fender, door and rocker joints could stay visually the same on the outside.

I'm curious too so hope someone responds who knows for sure.

Dave

I had always thought it was due to the wrap around windscreen* so I guess you could say rollup windows and not be wrong

*So that raises the question, are the A-pillars set further back, or does the base of the windshield protrude further forward in the middle of the cowl...?

Who has both, to compare?

I don't know the answer on the pillars but I think Lin needs a lift so he does not have to work on the ground! Best investment I ever made!

Hah. Shortly after that photo was taken I purchased a lift. One of the best decisions I ever made!
Lin

Cor! I'd love one.

I have the money to buy one but the conversion on the garage roof to get it in, and use it, would cost a fortune, especially as it is connected to the garage next door and is a 'flat' roof across the two garages and slopes from front to back. :sorrow:



Bob