I'm replacing the top and rear tack strip on my early 1915 Touring which is un-restored, however the top was replaced many years ago with an incorrect 3-window top. The top pads, bows and bow covers are original and will be left intact. However, I'm missing the metal strip for the back and someone used welt material to dress up the attachment points to the front and rear bows and rear tack strip. Interestingly enough, for reference, the rear tack strip, which on my car (January 29, 1915) still has the inner tack strip as well as the outer like the 1914 cars.
Does anyone have any pictures of the following finished details? I would like to see pictures of original/correct installations so I can duplicate it.
1, Front bow region where the top attaches.
2, Rear bow where the rear curtain and top is attached.
3, Metal trim and armrest areas where the seat roll/arm rest is attached.
4, Top bows where the top is anchored along the sides.
Thanks... Jim
Jim, I know you well enough to know it will be done right. Be careful, and be sure to get all of the side curtain fasteners on the top in the correct places before you sew it up. I believe the Benson Ford will have the prints for you top and side curtains. There has to be someone out there with an original '15 touring with the original top. Good luck.
Thanks Larry.. I am interested to see if my side curtain fasteners are in the right location. I had assumed all along that they were because the bows and bow covers appear to be original and I don't see any evidence that the fasteners were ever relocated. I think my fasteners have a letter "A" but don't remember for sure. They are brass but appear to have been painted black. Hopefully Royce will weigh in...?
James the top on my '15 is not a good example to share. I am going to be replacing it soon. I have several common sense fasteners that are located improperly so the fabric seat trim has to be replaced to fix all the extra holes.
If you want to share the cost of the drawings from Benson Ford I would be glad to split them with you so that both of us can do it right.