I am ordering the top boot for my 1926 roadster and plan to NEVER put the top up - the car will not even leave the garage when rain is a chance.
I know the "all original" guys will hate this idea...
I'm wondering if I put some cheap flat rolled top material stapled to the bows, then strap the top back and put on the boot - is this something people would spot - i.e. Not a top under that cover? Does the boot hide the complete top rear window, sides etc?
Travis
The boot hides most of the top, but there are sections of the rear curtain that are attached to the rear bow that will show, see attached pics of my 1924 cut-off touring (now a pickup).
First of all, your car is not a '26 roadster. It is a cut off touring car, of the 23-25 era. Next, Ford didn't supply top boots during that period. Ford did supply top boots for 26-7 as a option, but what you have isn't even close! Sorry for the language, but you wanted to know!
Larry, the pictures shown are posted by Mark Strange. There is no picture of Travis' car. Unless you know Travis, you don't know that his is not a 26.
The part which might be visible would be the very edge where the top is tacked to the back of the seat. You could tack some top material at that area and fill the boot with padding. However, depending on how far away from home you drive your car, you could be caught in rain unexpectedly. I know that I have from time to time.
Norm
Yea mine is definitely a 1926 roadster lol. Thanks for the replies. I hate to spend 319 for a top that never goes up when I could spend that on a gas/water/oil can kit etc.
I'm just getting ready to install the painted front end today and then all that's left is the engine, top boot stuff. 11 years on this project and I think I can get it on the road in the next few months finally!
Thanks!
Travis
Below is my roadster as it sits today - tonight I plan on having all the sheet metal on finally!
Travis
I see no problem other than the chance you might be caught in the rain. Since you have the bows you can always change your mind later if you decide you want a top. The top is not just for keeping out rain and snow, but can also shade you from the sun on a hot day. Your car looks very nice in the picture. It is a 26.
Norm
If your upholstery isn't in that permanently, I would like to suggest you move the back rest cushion down about an inch or inch and a half. It should have more of a roll, so it's not so square. Just my thoughts, but it is a common mistake I see all the time. You have a fine looking car.
Yes, Travis, your car looks great, it's my car that Larry finds so revolting! (just kidding, Larry).
Larry - unfortunately my seat tacks are driven home, but looking over the seat tonight, I think I can pull the sides down tighter and get more curve into the seats top sides. Thanks pointing that out.
Travis
On my '27 touring I hardly ever put the top down. Lobstering in the sun is not my favorite thing. top down is for summer nights - and I rarely drive my T at night intentionally. I'd spring for the top. A new top is on my list within the next couple of years.