Hello from the UK and '55 Vicky question

[Chris S]

Hello from England,

I've been visiting this site and the HAMB for quite a few years now, and as I'm now getting time to work on my '55 Victoria I thought it's time to sign up for some expert advice!
One of the things I've noticed on a couple of '55 Vickys recently on eBay is that they have stainless extensions under the roof gutters, it's like an extra 3/4 inch or so of gutter which sticks out above the door and rear quarter windows.
I've always had trouble with leaks on the roof rail seals on my '55 and these trims intrigued me.
Personally I don't like it, but I did wonder if this was a period accessory or if they were a bespoke fabrication.

Thanks,
Chris.

 

[Daves55Sedan]

Those parts are factory pieces used on all the hardtop models. they mainly serve as a anti-rattle device and guide for the top of the window to rest when the window is rolled up all the way. The piece above the door is spring loaded and swings upward when the door is opened and it comes back down over the outer edge of the window when the door is closed. I suspect if those are missing, there would be some rain leaking in.

 

[raceron1120]

If you're talking about the front window flippers, yes they are factory and necessary to seal the window to the top.I rebuilt them on my '56 Fairlane 4 or 5 years ago using a mix of used and new pieces. The springs and plastic tabs were available from Mac's, the seals (aka cat whiskers) I got in bulk from Automotive Specialties. I could not find replacement hinges for them though to had to re-use the old ones. They are still working fine. If your windows are leaking at the top, that is most likely culprit.

 

[Chris S]

Thanks fellas for your replies.
I didn't explain myself very clearly on the previous post.
I don't think the '55s had window flippers, only the '56 up cars if my memory serves me right.
Here's a pic of the Vicky on eBay that has these weird gutter trims.
Thanks for looking!

 

[CrownVic55]

You are correct that the flippers were not on the 55s. I have not idea what the piece in you photo is, possibly something the owner made up.

 

[scicala]

Looks like some type of aftermarket accessory to me.

Sal

 

[Chris S]

Thanks again fellas.
I've just found a photo of another Vicky which was recently on eBay which had similar gutter extensions.
I think it's probably some kind of vintage JC Whitney accessory.
Here's the photo.
Thanks.

 

[frank long island]

maybe that's the frameless version of the vent visors used to keep windows open a crack to have air movement

 

[raceron1120]

yes, that is a strange aftermarket item I think. I've never seen them before either. But whatever they are, I'd bet they're less of a headache than flippers.