FlipStik v.1 - Part 2

The FlipStik is based on a standard expandable doorway pull-up bar. They can be had from $19-$60.

Caution: this whole system depends upon your doorway framing being solid. If your doorway does not have structural integrity, then it would probably be better to not use this method of mounting but adapt it to the other major type of doorway pull-up bar where it hangs on the trip lip and then cams against the front of the doorway. I have not adapted this bar yet for that type of pull-up bar so you are on your own...

The main thing is that if you way over 140 lb, I'd recommend getting one that comes with steel cups that can be screwed into the doorway and help hold the bar in place. This makes it more secure. Mine is rated to 300 lb. if mounted with the steel cups. I didn't use them because I weigh 130 lb. and the doorway is strong enough that I could just expand the bar into place and it was enough. The disadvantage of using the steel cups on the ends to hold the bar is that there will be 3-4 small screw holes on either side that you'll have to fill if you want to permanently take it down.

Bar without mounting cups

Steps for adding the pull-up bar mounts

1)  Cut J-hook backing plates out of 1/2" ply or 1/2" poplar stock

2)  glue and screw on backing plate(s) for hooks on back of bar

3)  screw on hooks - I spaced the hooks so they would be on the outer smaller diameter part of the bar and space the hooks about 1/2" a part to give more strength to the screws in the wood. You'll need to use a shorter screw than the ones that come with it for the circled location. The board is thinner at that location because of the "cut" on the other side of that board.

4)  add doorway padding and adjust for doorway/bar fit. You want bar to lie flat again the molding and not tilt out or in.