I just got done with my TII swap, and I'm using the TMIC. My problem is after rebuilding the motor and swapping the engine I am broke. So I can't afford a TII hood or aftermarket, would it be illegal in Texas to drive without a hood?

 

I've seen some cars without hoods.

But you never know, maybe they were just lucky. I've seen cars with the rear plate in the rear window at an angle that no one could even see it at.

 

Yep, I've seen cars without hood, bumper, and fenders driving around town. But I really don't want to get a ticket.

 

I have seen liscensed dune buggy's and they have even less.
Call your local DPS center!

 

As a matter of fact I saw one like 20 mins ago lol

 

call the popo, your crazy!!! J/K

 

dude just do it.I did for a while.lol did same thing you did.Is it driving yet? We need to go to the track. I went to little river friday. Had fun.

 

According to the DPS website here are the "Items of Inspection" for Passenger cars in Texas.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
05.01 Inspect Every Passenger Car For: (Listed in suggested order of inspection)

* Check for evidence of Financial Responsibility (Insurance)

1. Horn
2. Windshield Wipers
3. Mirror
4. Steering
5. Seat Belts
6. Brakes (system) (Parking - beginning with 1960 models)
7. Tires
8. Wheel Assembly
9. Exhaust System
10. Exhaust Emission System (beginning with 1968 models)
11. Beam Indicator (beginning with 1948 models)
12. Tail Lamps (2); (1) if 1959 model or earlier
13. Stop Lamps (2); (1) if 1959 model or earlier
14. License Plate Lamp (1)
15. Rear Red Reflectors (2)
16. Turn Signal Lamps (beginning with 1960 models)
17. Head Lamps (2)
18. Motor, Serial, or Vehicle Identification Number
19. 1988 & newer - inspect for window tinting or coating
20. Gas caps on vehicles 2-24 model years old.

There is nothing on the books about missing body panels in regard to inspection therefore it could be assumed it's not a required part. As mentioned before there are other vehicles on the road that have much less in the way of body cladding so it might not be much of an issue from a legal standpoint.

You will however draw more attention to your vehicle than you may be comfortable with and could possibly be stopped by your local authorities just because of the "uniqueness" of your hoodless RX-7.

All in all I would speak with your local law enforcement and see what they have to say on the matter and make sure to get the name of the person who gave you the information.

 

Thanks for the info, really good stuff to know!

 

haha, hoodless RX-7s look hawt. I say do it!

 

I did it for a few weeks, got looks from cops and laughed at be the lady in the toll booth.

 

Actually, the tmic will fit under a stock na hood.

FYI

 

Too many times simple common sense is ignored by people?
FOTU!

 

I have a hood sittiing around

 

I would be more concerned about someone screwing with your engine...

 

I did it for a few days.
Come on, it's the south, nobody actually cares.