MTFCA Forum

Happy new year everyone, I am beginning the top wood install on my 1924 Canadian Coupe. I would call this a top wood replacement but unfortunately there was no wood here to begin with. I have purchased a top wood kit from Snyder’s. If you guys have any input or possibly links to known good articles on the topic that could be of value to me it would be appreciated.

Thanks.
Ed White

Ed: Some years ago Don Booth posted a lot of information, pictures, sketches, etc on top restorations and upholstery of the '26-'27 improved Fords. I know those are different from the '25, but similar materials and methods definitely apply. Best, jb

I suggest Google: “ Coupe headliner installed before top” . It will get you links to previous discussions.

Not sure what you are wanting or are you just stuck not knowing where to start?
The 1923-1927 coupes were going through an evolution and changing but are similar.
Wood was doing away and steel parts replacing them.
And there always is that Canadian cars were built a little different.

Try
https://www.cimorelli.com/mtdl/projects ... eroof.html

https://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/29/28607.html

https://mtfca.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?t=12178

https://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/80257/91693.html

https://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/1 ... 1306461290

Find someone who has done this in one of the links and talk to them.
I second talking to Don Booth for specific questions
Don can be found on Facebook these days.
Mike

Looks like your Coupe is a very late 24 Coupe because of the steel framed doors. Ford used that style beginning late 24 and onward into 25 when getting ready for the so-called improved 26-27 Ford T’s. There is a sequence that’s used to replace the tops on the 24-25 T Coupes. There are several threads on the subject on the forum. I bought the interior kit for my wood framed earlier 24 Coupe so I would have the beading that goes around the doors. When you buy an interior kit be sure to note that your car has the steel framed doors.

After taking a closer look at your photos it appears you need more wood besides the top wood. The boards next to your gas tank aren’t in the photo. I don’t see the belt wood or the package tray behind the seat either. There are two verticals either side of the back window that support your top wood. This wood should be installed before the top wood.

Also the top wood uses some very unique 1/4-20 L bolts to tie the A pillars to the top wood. This won’t be a simple job as the bolts are covered by sheet metal.

I own a ‘25 Coupe as well and can provide photos if needed. The car currently resides in a box because the panels are off the body. Mine has the Budd steel doors the same as yours. If you have the steel belt rail, know that it is fragile, valuable, and practically irreplaceable. Earlier versions were solid metal and more forgiving.

This is the L-shaped fastener referenced above.

I made some of the L brackets if someone needs them? years back i did a couple Fordors and coupes.

This 23-25 T Coupe wood drawing from Fordwood may help you with you may need for your 25. They sell a kit or you can buy individual pieces as needed. Another wood maker is Classic Auto Wood that might be of help.
The wood body drawing isn’t an exact blueprint but it’s pretty close. Another thing to remember you may or may not have to do some fitting for the wood pieces whether you buy them pre made or make them yourself. Fordwood can be slow and if you contact them it may take a few calls to do it.