Can't argue with any of that.
Here are a couple examples using plastic rod. I use anything that looks right to my eye. So it might be Evergreen brand or just using leftover sprues from model kit.


Plastic seems to just work better for me. I can adjust it easily enough and equally easy to glue support bars.
The advice about using some sort of jig is really great advice. I have used the tops of the small Testors paint jars to make corners for roll bars. Just leave the lid in place and wrap around halfway.
Good tips guys. I guess brass rod would be a much stronger alternative. Might try these tips on my next one.