Purpose of wooden spar in cockpit

[styree]

I have a 4-1200 and it has the wooden spar that runs front to back up by the skylight. What is the purpose of this? I assume its to ensure the plexi retains the airfoil shape if it begins to deflect. I want to replace it with aluminum so I can also use it for a sliding sun shade. I just want to know what its real purpose is.

Thanks

[Jerrytex]

On my early model 5 kit, it show the skylight rib in the installation manual. However, on the new manual it does not. I did not install it on my build after talking to John at Kitfox. I have had no issues in doing so. The model 4's skylight is slightly narrower so I am betting it would be even less of an issue unless you used abnormally thin material for the skylight.

[Slyfox]

took mine out years ago. no problems

[jiott]

I have the sliding sunshade; best thing I ever did. Keeps the cockpit cooler, but can be slid part or completely out of the way if desired.

[avidflyer]

The earliest Kitfoxes had a .060" thick lexan sheet for the windshield/skylight. Probably was more needed then to keep the skylight in place. JImChuk

[styree]

Thanks for everyone's feedback. I think I feel safe replacing it with the aluminum track for the sliding shade.