Our "HDS" system

[D. Hayes]

I don't think I would do a full net around a vehicle. I got enough drag as it is. After New Years I'm building my hail guard for my windshield which will be suspended net as well. I'm using my roof rack to secure a two sliding rails support frame. Ideally it will be retractable when I don't need it. So I plan to use a screw accuators to extend it and pull it back. I'm still debating if I want to use standard barn door rails and wheels or custom pole slides.

For the side windows I'm thinking drop down stainless steel plate with lexan ports and rubber bump gaurds to protect the paint. Still working this out in my noggin.

 

[Chris Heater]

I don't think I would do a full net around a vehicle. I got enough drag as it is. After New Years I'm building my hail guard for my windshield which will be suspended net as well. I'm using my roof rack to secure a two sliding rails support frame. Ideally it will be retractable when I don't need it. So I plan to use a screw accuators to extend it and pull it back. I'm still debating if I want to use standard barn door rails and wheels or custom pole slides.

For the side windows I'm thinking drop down stainless steel plate with lexan ports and rubber bump gaurds to protect the paint. Still working this out in my noggin.

Show us some pictures once you have it built.

As for drag...I don't think it will add that much. I guess we'll see though

 

[Patrick Martin]

I think a net will have a definite impact on drag. Heck, even one of those small ski racks that go across the top of a car can impinge on fuel economy (drag) by quite a bit.

For a test, I may be wrong, but I don't think the paint can test is a good measure. The paint can weighs more, but the hail has a much greater velocity. I think David's example proves that velocity is the key factor to test for.

And for damage, I don't follow why it matters if "the bank owns it". Do you mean you bought it, but they hold title while you make payments on it? If so, as long as you have it insured and you are making the payments on it (and it's not a lease you intend to turn in), then it does not matter. Heck, you could shove it off a cliff for all they care as long as you continue to make the payments.

 

[Chris Heater]

Hmm...good point. I would think with all the gaps it wouldnt create THAT much drag. Maybe im wrong though. Velocity is another thing we will have to take into account. Never realized that much damage could be caused by nickel hail if its wind driven