Folding back the top

[5 WoodenWheels]

On my '23 Touring I've always driven with the top closed. I like the sun protection. I also think the car looks better. Just in case, I'd like to know how to open the top properly. It's in like-new condition, would like to keep it that way. There are two thumbscrews up front by the windshield. I imagine I'll be dealing with those. Should I just undo them and hit the road at top speed, let the laws of physics do the rest? Or is there another--less fun--way to go about it?

I'll try out whatever suggestions you may have. Thanks in advance.

[DanTreace]

Loosen the top clamps on the stanchions, un-snap the rear gypsy curtains on each side of the rear irons,, so the snaps don't tear the top material, then climb in the rear, and lift and fold down the irons. Be sure to place the top bow saddles first, as the lowered top will rest on them.

[5 WoodenWheels]

One man top showing top straps.jpg

Loosen the top clamps on the stanchions, un-snap the rear gypsy curtains on each side of the rear irons,, so the snaps don't tear the top material, then climb in the rear, and lift and fold down the irons. Be sure to place the top bow saddles first, as the lowered top will rest on them.

Thank you, glad I asked. I will have to pull the car out of the garage which at the moment is a problem because I'm replacing a brake hose on my truck which is blocking the garage door. There is not enough clearance inside to lift the top and pull it back. I'll take it slow. Thanks again.
Gerrit

[Norman Kling]

After the top is down, be sure to strap all the irons to the saddles. If you drive it or especially if you haul it on an open trailer, it is good to get a boot to cover the top when it is down. This will resist wind damage to the top. If I have the top down, I prefer to drive it with the top down at least for short trips. If I am going for an all day drive, I put it up to keep from getting sunburn.
Norm

[TWrenn]

My '13 touring hardly EVER has it's top up! I absolutely love the better view of everything and frankly I think the car looks better with the top down than up. Plus, it's a lot easier getting in and out, especially for some older folks or anyone with "joint problems" for that matter. The top on the Torpedo does stay up for the wife to ride in as she is super sun and heat sensitive, but it's nothing as fun as with the top down. Just my 2 cents!!

[Humblej]

Gerrit,
The entire lowering and raising procedure for the touring one man top is in the Ford Service Bulletins August 1922, Vol 3, No 8, pgs 62-63 Figs 78-85. Figure 84 posted by Dan is of the top going back up.

[George House]

Gerrit,
… That 2nd bow from the front has 2 ‘nubs’ at the lower end. They’ll need to be removed from the ‘cradles’ high up on the 3rd bow from the front and inserted into the fixture lower down on the 3rd bow. Don’t pinch the top fabric between the 4 folded bows. YMMV

[5 WoodenWheels]

Thanks for all the information, going to hold off on this for now. Top is in beautiful condition, don't want to risk damaging it.
Gerrit

[Norman Kling]

If it will fit in your garage with the top up, fine also if you don't trailer on an open trailer especially at high speeds. Leave it up. I used to have a Model A Phaeton and I didn't even have the saddles on it. I left it up all the time.
Norm