1932 Cabriolet hood.

[surreveps]

I have problem folding the hood on my 32 Cabriolet. I know that it will not fold compleatly flat, but mine sits much to high. There is a pillowlike flap that runs from the front header bow to the bow over the rear window. This bulky «pillow» interfears with the frame.
May I remove this flap? Or has anyone a better solution?

 

[47topless]

This may not be your problem but on my '47 convertible, there is a stuffed "pillow" that is positioned on the top of the canvas top storage hold after the top is folded down into the hold. the tonneau cover is installed on top over this. When the top is ready to be raised, this "pillow" and cover are removed and stored in the back seat or trunk.

 

[DavidG]

When properly folded, a '32 cabriolet top stack is not particularly high as shown in the Ford Archives photo below and that of largely original survivor in the other photos.

I see two things in your photos that are at the heart of your problem. First, those horizontal pieces directly above the door windows must be removed before lowering the top. If they are somehow permanently attached, the top was incorrectly installed.

Second, like nearly all convertible tops, vintage or on a modern car, all elements of the top fabric, including the pads on the sides must be pulled rearward so as not to remain forward and get caught in the folding top irons as is the case in your third photo.

The pads that run fore and aft on the sides belong there, they are not the problem, but rather its how you are folding them.

 

[surreveps]

Thanks for answering.
The horizontal padded pieces are permanently attached. How are they supposed to be attached?
How can I remove the hood?

 

[david berkeley]

The top must fully contract into the well in back of the seat. If the top bow is not correct it will not permit the top to fully make it into the "well". I had that problem when I ordered a bow that was to thick. Also the top irons, if bent, can impact your top from fully closing. My horizontal pads are fully attached and the top folds down nicely. Again, be sure the top bow isn't hanging up to fully lowering the top into the well.

 

[DavidG]

I erred and David Berkeley is correct, the side panels should be permanently attached. I just obtained the seven pages of installation instructions from LeBaron Bonney for a 1932 cabriolet top and those instructions are consistent with what David wrote in #5 above.


Those detailed instructions may be helpful in solving your top's folding issues. If you think that they might, please send me a PM with your email address and I will forward them to you.

 

[surreveps]

DavidG Thank you for the response.
I would appreciate a copy of the intallation manual very much.
As a newbee, I am not allowed to send PM. My email is:
surreveps@gmail.com

 

[surreveps]

David Berkeley. Thanks, I will look closer on the top bow.

 

[sugarmaker]

Surreveps,
Awesome car! Welcome to the Ford Barn!
More pictures always welcome too.
Regards,
Chris