Josh-
Topeka and this board are your best bets, but Topeka is the "Final say" ...almost. The trouble with the local guys is that when you get an answer, it may not be definitive. We have great guys in tech, and unfortunately, a couple here and there, that are, shall we say, a bit headstrong. Most of the time you get the right answer, but once in a while.......and once they write something in your logbook, even though every other tech reads it and says "hogwash", you will have to do what the writing says. So, your best bet is to have the paperwork done before the tech ever sees the car.
I would recommend getting, if you don't have one already, a dig camera, then "Mark up" the pics with lines and such, and ask questions here.
This site is not an easy place to post pics, but it can be done if you have some hosting space. Others here do and will likely be happy to help in that dept.
I know your doorbar comments were just an example, but as you mentioned it, the IT rules are structured in such a way as to reward you for putting in "NASCAR" door bars, which don't have to be that "NASCAR" at all. I recomend you look into it. I can email shots of my car if you like.
------------------
Jake Gulick
CarriageHouse Motorsports
ITA 57 RX-7
New England Region
[email protected]