Quote:
Originally Posted by 38woody
I unfortunately have to replace the top material on my 1938 woody because it tore out across the windshield. I can’t seem to find any guidance on how to replace this top. Do I start pinning it down on the front, rear, or one of the sides first? Also where is the most reputable place to get the long grain cobra top material and is the cotton looking backing you can see inside the car something that comes on the material or do I have to source that also.
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I lay the material over the roof area and center it, being certain the grain is "straight". Then I tack a few places near the center on a long side, go around to the other side and do the same.
PULL the material TIGHT as you staple.
I get about 1' tacked down on each long side then place a few staples on each of the short sides. Again, do a few near the center at both the front and the back.
While you place the staples always pull the material tight while being certain you're not distorting it. You want the grain to run "straight" and if you pull too much in one direction, it'll get a wavy appearance.
Work your way around the roof. A few more staples on the left, then a few on the right, a few in the front and then a few in the back.
It does take some practice to do this task well.
Leave the four corners until last. I'd suggest you stay away from the corners until you are ready to trim them maybe 6" or so.
The corners, especially the rear corners are a total PITA to produce a beautiful appearance. Go slow, think it through and don't staple until you are confident.
A couple of other tips...
Use either a pneumatic stapler or an electric stapler. Stainless staples.
Allow the material to lay atop your car for at least a few days. It needs to relax after being rolled up.
Install the top on a hot day in the sun.
I strongly suggest you get the top done sans the corners, allow it to sit overnight and only then start to tackle the corners.
Don't laugh but a heat gun, once the top and corners are installed, is a great tool to tighten up any areas that are not taut.