MTFCA Forum

Good evening Folks of MTFC

My project involves a 1913 Model T Touring top assembly for which I am in need of dimensions. After reviewing the past discussions (and diagrams) on this topic ,I would like to confirm some information. #1 bow extends from the socket 6 3/4" # 2 bow 6 1/2" #3 bow 9" #4 bow 7". Another source mentions the following measurements, #1 bow extends about 7".... #2 bow about 9".....#3 bow about 6 1/2" #4 bow about 6 3/4". I can find no information to confirm the lengths of the sockets themselves (other than total lengths of bows for #2 and #3 via the diagram). I have learned that this diagram is of the Murray Fahnestock drawing which could be of the '21-'22 vintage....if true...will these dimensions still hold true for a 1913 Touring ?

Thank You to all whom provide clarity to my dilemma !!

Steve Meudt

Steven, my approach differs. The second bow socket needs to be vertical, if not canted ever so slightly forward. With that held in place it will set the length of the front bow which is attached to its socket. Bows two and three should be the same height, so if the sockets are different heights, the bows will need to be different heights out of the sockets. The back bow needs to be approx 1.5" behind the top of the back panel, and about the same distance below bows two and three. The check is then to see how they stack when the top is lowered.

Hope this helps,
Allan from down under.

Steve,
I am going thru the same issue/process with my 12 touring. I decided that I am setting up the bows such that #2 and #3 result with the top parallel to the shop floor, i.e. level and the sockets vertical. Those 2 bows then stack together when folded down. I then used my original back bow length and set it back so that the back panel of the top will be at the same angle as the back of the body. I am initially making the front bow the length such that when folded down rests together with the rear bow. I have not completely assembled the bare top frame (no top fabric) with the front bow. I am concerned that the overhang of the front bow may extend too far forward.

One difference between 12 and 13 is that my 12 windshield is straight up. I don't know if that makes a difference I have new wooden bows that I have fitted to my sockets and I am in the process of restoring my (I believe original) top sockets.

I could not work with either set of dimensions in your post. If you want to discuss further I suggest you PM me with contact info.
Bill

Hi Allen and William, Thank you for Your replies! I will be getting into my project next week with Your advice. Wish me luck ! William, as I get going I may confer with Ya to see how You are doing on Your '12

Gratefully Yours

Steve

The 1912 top I believe is slightly taller than the 1913 top. The size and fit of tops varied more on 1912 and 1911 cars than they did in later years. And the front of the top did need to be longer to reach the windshield for a 1912 or 1911. There may have been some slight difference between 1913 and 1914 cars, however they were very close to the 1915 and later two-man top cars.

My main point is that although many generalizations may be close, do not go by 1912 details to fit a top onto a 1913.

Thank You Wayne , the more information I get lessens the chance of a faulty installation !!! I appreciate Your reply to my delema!!
Steve

I might be able to help.

Steven, note on Bob's car the equal height second and third bows. Note also the second bow leans back. This is because the top has shrunk with age, pulling the bow back as it does so. You can compensate a little for this by giving it a slight cant forward when setting up the bows. Doing this will set the front bow in its position.

Allan from down under.

Hey Bob and Allan, this is great advice. I'll be starting on the top project next week. I'll set the bows up as You advised !!

Thanks
Steve