Sport Coupe Top - Need Help

Bob Bidonde

Bob Bidonde

Well-known member
Need help regarding installing the outer top cover on a 1931 Sport Coupe. It is time to trim away the excess material of the outer cover at the back 2 corners of the roof. I need help determining what the cutting looks like. Does anyone have a picture or a good description of the shape of the cutting?
 

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Look in volume 5 of the restorer technical books. It has the complete information on restoring a 30-31 Sport Coupe.
The cut for the top back side follows the profile of the wood. It is centered along the wood beam. Don't cut to far on the sides. The trim piece must cover the cut. Just a little at a time and check with the length of the trim piece. I have photos some where but I will have to find them.
 
I can see that rear bow outline. Are the card boards in there? The card boards cover that stuff on the sides and help pad and make that all level out some. The rear valance will cover things up quite a bit there but it seems like there is a lot of material there like it's not quite padded out enough. It's hard for me to tell with limited photos.
 
Bob
They are a difficult top , but the key is patience and analyze all you are doing BEFORE you make any cuts. The key is pulling the material tight to pull any buckled areas smooth .
I have a 30 in the shop right now I can send you photos on if need be.
True the valance will cover your seams along the rear bow, but it’s still critical. Making the cut in the top is a judgement call as you go. Lebaron Bonney use to say it was the most difficult top they supplied to install . I think a cabriolet may be harder. Will find out this winter when I do my own 68c.
Make sure things are tight and tacked super well on the lower belt rail.
Larry
 
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