The Ford Barn

acchaplin · 04-25-2025, 02:01 AM

Any of you guys know the correct '32 Roadster top color, please?

In the Stayfast top site they list a Oyster with Tan backing, and a Tan with Tan backing.

Which one is the correct color? Thanks

DavidG · 04-25-2025, 08:01 AM

There's no color t0p material that Ford referred to as "drab" for 1932-39 deluxe open car top material among the current Haartz Stayfast offerings. Dark beige is the closest, but lacks the hint of olive green of the original. Their near-white oyster color is about as close to the original as their reds and blues.

acchaplin · 04-25-2025, 09:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DavidG

There's no color t0p material that Ford referred to as "drab" for 1932-39 deluxe open car top material among the current Haartz Stayfast offerings. Dark beige is the closest, but lacks the hint of olive green of the original. Their near-white oyster color is about as close to the original as their reds and blues.

Thanks for the reply.

However,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, your comment(s) is "very" confusing and hard for me to understand.

Your black white, and "tinted" (?) pictures in your '32 books of Tops and upholstery material colors are "very hard" for me to see one color from the other. I "see" one color, someone else "sees" another color. Another person "sees" a entirely different color.

Looking through the 100's of pictures of '32 roadster tops that GOOGLE supplied. The three colors that stand out, is the Black, and the lighter tans, dark(er) tans.

You once told me (PM) that Stayfast makes the closest '32 Roadster/Phaeton top material.

In Stayfast's web site they show both a "Oyster" with tan backing, and a "Tan" with a tan backing. (either color looks correct compaired to the pictures in your book) I posted the question, which one of those colors is the correct '32 material? You stated above. That, "Dark Beige is the closest" (Stayfast does not list a "Dark Beige" color) I do not understand your comment of, "but lacks the Olive Green of the original."

Then you state, the near white "Oyster" color (which Stayfast offers) is about as close to the original,,,,,,,,. What in the world does "Red and Blue" have anything to do with original '32 top colors!?

According to your above statements either color is the "closest." (???)

Please tell me how can I "word" the question, "which one of Stayfast's top colors listed is the correct '32 roadster top?"

rockfla · 04-25-2025, 09:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by acchaplin

Thanks for the reply.

However,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, your comment(s) is "very" confusing and hard for me to understand.

Your black white, and "tinted" (?) pictures in your '32 books of Tops and upholstery material colors are "very hard" for me to see one color from the other. I "see" one color, someone else "sees" another color. Another person "sees" a entirely different color.

Looking through the 100's of pictures of '32 roadster tops that GOOGLE supplied. The three colors that stand out, is the Black, and the lighter tans, dark(er) tans.

You once told me (PM) that Stayfast makes the closest '32 Roadster/Phaeton top material.

In Stayfast's web site they show both a "Oyster" with tan backing, and a "Tan" with a tan backing. (either color looks correct compaired to the pictures in your book) I posted the question, which one of those colors is the correct '32 material? You stated above. That, "Dark Beige is the closest" (Stayfast does not list a "Dark Beige" color) I do not understand your comment of, "but lacks the Olive Green of the original."

Then you state, the near white "Oyster" color (which Stayfast offers) is about as close to the original,,,,,,,,. What in the world does "Red and Blue" have anything to do with original '32 top colors!?

According to your above statements either color is the "closest." (???)

Please tell me how can I "word" the question, "which one of Stayfast's top colors listed is the correct '32 roadster top?"

There is NO stayfast color that is an exact match, you will have to choose (to your eye) the lesser of evils. Perhaps the two attached photos will help you as to the "Green hue" of the true original stayfast color (with David's blessing, hoepfully) IF you look at the two attached photos of these extraordinary restorations you will see how the top material has a "greenish/olive"y" hue to the appearance. Especially the 37 picture

rockfla · 04-25-2025, 09:33 AM

Perhaps this Maroon 33 roadster will also translate on here like it does in the actual picture? The top does not appear tan against the Maroon

rockfla · 04-25-2025, 10:05 AM

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

acchaplin

Here is a link that I think will ALSO show a high quality picture and the greenish hue of the more correct top material

https://www.conceptcarz.com/profile/...8-special.aspx

petehoovie · 04-25-2025, 10:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rockfla

Perhaps this Maroon 33 roadster will also translate on here like it does in the actual picture? The top does not appear tan against the Maroon

petehoovie · 04-25-2025, 10:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rockfla

There is NO stayfast color that is an exact match, you will have to choose (to your eye) the lesser of evils. Perhaps the two attached photos will help you as to the "Green hue" of the true original stayfast color (with David's blessing, hoepfully) IF you look at the two attached photos of these extraordinary restorations you will see how the top material has a "greenish/olive"y" hue to the appearance. Especially the 37 picture

acchaplin · 04-25-2025, 02:18 PM

There is NO stayfast color that is an exact match, you will have to choose (to your eye) the lesser of evils. Perhaps the two attached photos will help you as to the "Green hue" of the true original stayfast color (with David's blessing, hoepfully) IF you look at the two attached photos of these extraordinary restorations you will see how the top material has a "greenish/olive"y" hue to the appearance. Especially the 37 picture

THANK YOU! Ah,,,,,, I "see" now sez the blind man! What confused me was, I didn't see any "olive" hue in David's pictures! David's pictures the top looks Oyster with a similar backing, or Tan(ish) with a similar color backing.

David told me that Stayfast makes the closest '32 top material. Fine and dandy. Go into Stayfast's site, see two colors that (looks) are similar to David's pictures. Ask (post) a seemingly simple question, which one is the correct color,,,,,,,,,,? Then all hell breaks loose! Like I cussed out the Pope or something.

Most of the rainbow colors are then mentioned further confusing, "now what!?" David mentions a "Dark Beige" Stayfast doesn't offer a "Dark Beige"! Very flustrating and confusing, when one is told about Stayfast, then told a color they don't offer!? Stayfast offers a plain Beige with a BLACK backing. Nothing is David's books shows a dark or black backing.

Didn't know you needed David's,,,,,, blessing (!?) to explain (in detail) what this "olive" hue was. Thank you again for your detailed explaination!

Now if someone can tell me the meaning of the "Red and Blue" top colors comment.

I am going to surmise that David's comment, "Not a Oyster in sight." Means that the Oyster with tan backing color isn't the correct colored top? So that leaves the Tan w/tan backing must be the correct choice? Or,,,,,, are you guys privy to a color Stayfast makes that isn't listed,,,,,,, that is being mentioned?

DavidG · 04-25-2025, 11:40 AM

Robert,

Not an oyster in the house!

Thanks.

acchaplin,

Between this posing and the numerous personal messages on this topic and the colors of the standard and deluxe upholstery material (they are not the same nor are the colors of their top material the same), you've worn me out.

You are on your own henceforth.

P.S. There are no tinted photos in the book. The photos are either black and white or in full color as captured by a camera.

acchaplin · 04-25-2025, 01:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DavidG

Robert,

Not an oyster in the house!

Thanks.

acchaplin,

Between this posing and the numerous personal messages on this topic and the colors of the standard and deluxe upholstery material (they are not the same nor are the colors of their top material the same), you've worn me out.

No wonder it's rare (even though it's nice for reference) to see a fully restored '32! It's too complicated. One person sez-suggests one thing, another person sez something entirely non related. Another person will make a statement, then later on say completely the opposite.
"you" my friend, say "you" are wore out!? wheeee! I am so confused, flustrated over such a seemingly simple quest of wanting a close as possible to OEM color and style of Roadster interior and top as I can obtain. Every time, I feel "this is it" that idea is not avaible, or gets pulled out from under me. Then back to "square one" again!

I stared inquiring (posting) about OEM style top and interior information in late '22. Obtaining color samples, going through just about every upholstery company's sample offerings searching, asking. Always drawing a blank.

David, the pictures in your book look drab green.
So I search for a greenish material. Can't find a match. Webster's defines Copra Drab as a bland, non exciting "brown" color!!?? Your pictures don't look brown! Which color is it, brown or green!? I would ask a upholstery supply company if they have any Copra Drab colored material. They would reply with a generic comment of, "we don't know," and then show me 500 samples to choose from! I can't make a choice, because I'm not 100% positive about the color myself! Several of the so called "restored" Roadsters and Phaetons the tan upholstery material is so bright one needs sun glasses. I know that bright of tan/brown is not right!

Since '22, all I have accomplished, is more questions than answers, not sure of who to ask, where to ask, what to ask, a stack of useless upholstery sample colors. However! I DO have the tan rubber floor mat made, cut, and installed!!!

You are on your own henceforth. Okey-Doakey

P.S. There are no tinted photos in the book. The photos are either black and white or in full color as captured by a camera.

Some pictures look like they are "tinted."

tubman · 04-25-2025, 04:46 PM

In situations like this, I like to use "sarcasm" emoji

to clarify things.

There are some people out there who seem to take everything seriously and need a little help.

acchaplin · 04-26-2025, 08:08 AM

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alumcantandthd
09-18-2021 @ 10:48 AM
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Several questions, please.

Where might I find good detailed pictures of a original Deuce Roadster interior? You know, like a 'blueprint' or something, that I can take to an upholstery shop?

Has anyone bought a Deuce Roadster and removed the original interior for some other reason, that I 'might' be able to buy, bum, beg, borrow or steal?

I have some decent detailed pictures of a DeLuxe Roadster interior from Cartouche. (rolling eyes, while shaking bowed head slowly back and forth) Reminds me of those 'custom fit' seat covers, upholstery panels, etc, JC Whitney sold in the '60's-'70's. I understand the kick and door panel pictures, but the other panels they have pictures of, I have no ideal where they are to go!

Is the seat, part of the side, rear or back panel? Or does the 'back' panels goes from door post around to door post, then the seat set in? What I seem to have pictured in my mind, isn't what it actually is. Receiving a vague description is worse, because having Dyslexia doesn't help to get a fully 'mental picture' either.

Thanks!

3w2
09-19-2021 @ 7:11 AM
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You can obtain copies of the original engineering drawings (blueprints) of the various upholstery components from the Benson Ford Research Center in Dearborn. However, you will the original part numbers of those components in order to obtain those drawings. The part numbers are listed in the 1932 body parts catalog (known as the "Body Parts Price List"), which is available in reprint form from many hobby dealers. (Used reprints and originals often show up for sale on Amazon and ebay.)

The illustration below is from that catalog and it shows most of the various components of the deluxe roadster interior. It is a fairly simple interior consisting of a pair of cowl side, door, and seat side trim panels for the front compartment in addition to the seat bottom and back cushions. The seat side (or shoulder) trim panels terminate beyond the back of the sides of the seat back cushion. They are independent and do not attach to the seat back cushion sides. In other words, in response to your last paragraph, no upholstery trim or multiples of it, extend from door post to door post (B pillars in automotive speak).

You will not likely find any good photo of the area behind the top of the front seat back cushion known as the package tray. The first attached photograph is from Ford's archives and gives an overall elevated view of the interior upholstery. Unfortunately, with the top down, and the top boot in place, nothing of the area behind the top of the front seat back cushion is shown. It is very narrow, front to back, and with the top in place even a photo inside would not be either easy to take or be all that informative. You can see part of the vertical portion of the trim on the belt rail in the second photograph (the fasteners shown are for the attachment of the top boot).

The horizontal or bottom portion of the package tray is formed by two upholstery-covered curved and lipped steel panels, which you presumably have in bare form. The rear of the two is permanently attached to the front of the upper back panel of the body and the front piece is attached with wood screws to the back of the framework of the front seat back cushion. When the seat back cushion is installed that front piece fits beneath and is attached to the rear piece with oval-headed nickel-plated screws and finishing washers thereby securing the back of the front seat cushion to the body structure. (There are two sets of holes for each attachment point allowing a slight adjustment of the front seat back cushion.) The remainder of the trim for the package tray involves the trim covering the curved wood rail on the top edge of the upper back and quarter panels.

If you provide your email address I can send you LeBaron Bonney's instructions for the front seat back installations and how the curved wood rail and the rest of the package tray is trimmed.

The rumble seat compartment upholstery consists of five components, namely the two cushions, a pair of side trim panels, and textured heavy cardboard panel covering the back of the front seat back cushion. Portions of all of those components are shown in the attached photos.

David (as in DavidG on fordbarn.com)

P.S. While I loaded the photos in the order of the text, this site produces them in reverse order; sorry. (Bruce, That's something for your to do list.)

This message was edited by 3w2 on 9-19-21 @ 7:15 AM

alumcantandthd
09-20-2021 @ 3:55 PM
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THANK YOU! I 'see' now sez the blind man! Your picture there really helped me understand! Thanks again!

Ok, I have to 'make,' or get ideas on how to make, a (#?) piece panel for the sides and back from the "B" pillar all the way around to the other side pillar. For I have 'made' my seat. It's a couple inches wider, bottom and back than the replacement OEM seat frames they sell. I used three of those rear seats that are in the Ford Econoline Vans to make the frame, hinges, springs and foam.

Plus, my windshield is chopped, so my seat has to set a little lower, and still have spring and foam comfort. Not just the hi-density sculptered foam I see the 'custom' seats are made of.

The simple stitching design pattern that are on the door panels, I can 'extend' around to the panels beside and behind the seat.

The back of the seat I made, folds forward, and the bottom part lifts up, (not at the same time) for storage space, also the hinges are hidden. It will 'resemble' a OEM roadster seat somewhat.

I was thinking, I could use the Cartouche interior kit, then 'copy' the panels design behind the seat. Not now, after seeing 'their' picture construction, no way!

Here is my email addy, for you to send me LB's picture instructions. (or ANY other pictures)
[email protected]

Thank you again for your help.

3w2
09-20-2021 @ 7:10 PM
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So, why here and on fordbarn.com did you make no mention up front of using a non-original seat and your ideas as to the rest of the upholstery? Quite the contrary, you strongly implied that you wanted original type upholstery.

HAMB is the site you need for your kind of car as this one is for information on cars that more or less fall with the mandate of the Club which is to preserve the cars as they were built by Ford.

alumcantandthd
09-25-2021 @ 2:58 AM
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Wow!

I really do know know how to respond to your __________ (rolling eyes while shaking bowed head slowly back and forth) ____ comment!

Please accept my humble, sincere, apology for insulting your ego! I did NOT know that I am required (by law?) to build 'my' car, with 'my' $$$, to 'your' standards!? Do you also 'correct' others that have a 'restored' looking car, only the entire body is fiberglass,,,,,,,,,?

However,,,,,,, your pictures helped me a lot on understanding how the OEM interior panels were installed around the seat, and how I can 'make' the seat upholstery, and the panels around and behind the seat I made, look OEM. Thank you. Googling, 'original' Deuce Roadster interior pictures turned up everything but OEM. I asked for pictures on the HAMB site, but was refered to 'this site.'

I thought NOT cutting up one of those $$$ re-production '32 seat frame and springs, modifying it to sit a little lower. That taking 3 seats given to me for free, and making a 'folding' OEM looking seat would be a better idea. But (sigh) I was wrong.

I won't mention how I made a 1940's-early 1950's OEM 'looking' oil bath air cleaner outta' a couple of hubcaps.

3w2
09-25-2021 @ 8:59 AM
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If you did not know how to respond, why did you bother? I repeat, HAMB is the website for rods, this one isn't for rods.

RETRACT. I stated that I started in "late '22" working on the OEM style Roadster interior. I found out I was wrong on the date. Here is some "flack" I ran into in 2021!

glennpm · 04-26-2025, 12:07 PM

Yesterday I took a number of these pictures outside in good light. Today I adjusted the white balance in Gimp, a graphic program. This picture of T14-GT Green-on-Tan, is the result and it is a perfect match to my sample.

hotrodA · 04-26-2025, 09:40 AM

Paging @Ryan to the red phone.

Is there any more popcorn?

glennpm · 04-26-2025, 12:22 PM

Regarding seat springs, Synder's provides all of them I believe. They'll also make a custom 2" high versus stock's 3" too.

https://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/s...=&searcht=1932

acchaplin · 04-26-2025, 06:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by glennpm

Regarding seat springs, Synder's provides all of them I believe. They'll also make a custom 2" high versus stock's 3" too.

https://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/s...=&searcht=1932

Thanks again Glenn! Shudda had Snyder's seat addy back in 2019-2020 when I made the seat.

Places that had re-popp Deuce spring seats were rather pricey. (Brookville was one) As I mentioned. I felt is was more benificial and cheaper, NOT to modify one of those $pring seat frames, but make my own.

Had a guy that was scrapping out one of those '20's something-or-other extended Econoline "people" vans. You know, a long(er) cargo van that had back seats.

I got all 3 seats basicly for free, traded a 30 pack of beer or a pizza. Can't remember, don't much care.

Made the bottom and top frames much to the original size of the re-popp Deuce seat frame. Took the van seat frames cut, extended, shortened, re-enforced, etc. The seat back was a little longer than the bottom, (taller) and a little wider than the bottom frame. Now had a seat frame to fit the seat riser, and the car!. Next was get the back and bottom springs installed. Cut the OEM van seat foam to fit the modified frame. Made the foam to fit my hips, re-enforced my lower back. Had a very confortable bottom slope, and the back tilt was just right, plus the height was inline with a 3" chopped windshield! Plus at quick look, the seat looked somewhat original!

After looking at it, and sitting in the seat (making pretend motor noises with my tongue and lips) for a couple of weeks, I wanted to do "more". So I took the seat down to the frame, and made the back portion tilt forward to the steering wheel. The back frame hinge is hidden inside the bottom seat foam!

A smiple modification of the bottom seat frame mounting to the floor seat riser. Resulted that I can now lift the bottom seat portion to reveal a "cubby hole" between the underneath seat frame and the riser! I can either, lift the bottom up, or tilt the back forward, revealing a storage space between the seat back and the trunk divider. But I can't lift and tilt at the same time. Only one or the other.

The basic shape of the Van seat foam, I whittled out with a 'lectric carving knife. It needs to be smoothed out better by a upholstery professional with that special foam.

Wifey gave me an idea on how to re-word my original style, color, shape and top material request!

I kept saying I wanted original color seat, side panels, and top. She said to say/ask,,,, I WANT ORIGINAL 'LOOKING' interior and top!

It DOES NOT have to be a dead "balls on" concourse correct match!! JUST LOOK original!

David, that is what I asked, (after you told me there was none avalible, or something worded like that,) "in your travels, if you ever ran across a material color that was "close" the OEM color?" Most people, when a item is discontinued, they find a close subistute. But you said "NO" there was nothing close! That statement of yours troubled me. No more. There HAS to be a material out there and is VERY close to the original Copra Drab color! (whatever that is)

Since David said that Stayfast is as about as close to an OEM top color/material as one can get. And his colored pictures show a (light) tan(ish) roadster top inside and out.

I'll take RockFla's "lesser of the two evils" idea, and go with the Tan outside and Tan inside top material. I was told by Stayfast 4 yards of material would do a roadster top.

THERE! Top material and color is chosen! DONE! No more discussion needed! (unless a vital correction is warranted)

THANK YOU ALL!!!

David. I know you said you wern't gonna help me any more. Fine and dandy. But I'm gonna hold you to your answer to your mailing address request.

Sometime here, (when?) I am supposed to be getting some upholstery samples that are "supposed" be close to that Copra Drab color, form overseas. I'm going to gather them all up put a ID # on the back of each one, and then mail 'em to you! If you would PLEASE view them, pick the one sample you think is the CLOSEST to the C'Drab color, and that you would use as a subistute! Throw the rest away and use the SASE to mail your choice, "THIS ONE" on your choice, back to me.

That is the ONLY way I know of to end this confusing verbal volleyball upholstery blanter!

DavidG · 04-26-2025, 02:10 PM

Glenn,

Thanks for taking the trouble to take the "best possible" photo of your Lebaron Bonney T-14 top material. Attached are a couple of photos of the unused top boot and door side curtains from a restored roadster that I recently acquired.

Over the years, the Athertons' experience was that individual dye lots from Haartz (their supplier of the T-14 material) varied considerably in terms of their olive green appearance. (Robert's examples of my '37 cabriolet and '32 phaeton and those attached here are all made from the Haartz/LeBaron Bonney T-14 material at different times.)

Those variations evidently took place ninety years ago as well judging from the variations in the color density exhibited in the Ford archives photos of '32-'38 deluxe open cars shown in the DeAngelis/Francis book. All of those vehicles were made with the same top material which Ford simply described as "drab".

The coloration in the attached photos is the same as that of the original phaeton side curtains of Gene Hetland's highly original phaeton's examples shown in the V8 Club's 1932 book and numerous other well-preserved side curtains, top boots, and even the remnants of original tops. Yes, it is at the extreme of "greeness" dye lots, but as original nonetheless.

glennpm · 04-26-2025, 03:23 PM

You're welcome David.

I knew Lee very well, a wonderful person and thoughtful. When I was piecing together my'32, I had access to Lee's fantastic original roadster that he kept in the shop out back. I wonder who has it now? I took many dimensions and photos during the process on many a Saturday morning. My '40 convertible was used for the original LB pattern. My'40 had been reupholstered over the original materials but it was a struggle for them!

We talked a few times about sourcing materials. Most of his wool interior materials were sourced in England. He was fussy about originality and showed me some of the sample rejects, shaking his head :-)

DavidG · 04-26-2025, 04:07 PM

My first contact with them was with Jack back in the mid-60s with my first '32 roadster restoration and then with Lee when Jack retired. They were a pleasure to work with as our originality goals were the same. I relied on them for all of my Ford restoration projects' tops and upholstery and I provided engineering drawing copies to fill in some of the blanks.

When they decided to take the plunge with Haartz and contract for the necessarily-custom made T-14 top material in the late '70s or early '80s, they were concerned that there wouldn't be enough demand for it to justify the minimum quantity that they had to commit to purchase. Accordingly, they offered at least some of their customers a one-time offer to purchase a full roll of it. I still have a small amount left from the roll that I bought.

With Lee's passing and the retirement/loss of key employees, the firm's demise became an obvious eventuality, but I relied on them up to the very end even as things started to fall apart in the hands of the third set of owners.

04-25-2025, 02:01 AM	#1
acchaplin Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2023 Posts: 218	'32 Roadster top color Any of you guys know the correct '32 Roadster top color, please? In the Stayfast top site they list a Oyster with Tan backing, and a Tan with Tan backing. Which one is the correct color? Thanks

04-25-2025, 08:01 AM	#2
DavidG Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: southeastern Michigan Posts: 10,597	Re: '32 Roadster top color There's no color t0p material that Ford referred to as "drab" for 1932-39 deluxe open car top material among the current Haartz Stayfast offerings. Dark beige is the closest, but lacks the hint of olive green of the original. Their near-white oyster color is about as close to the original as their reds and blues.

04-25-2025, 10:05 AM	#6
rockfla Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: Jacksonville FL Posts: 4,804	Re: '32 Roadster top color Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) acchaplin Here is a link that I think will ALSO show a high quality picture and the greenish hue of the more correct top material https://www.conceptcarz.com/profile/...8-special.aspx

04-25-2025, 02:18 PM	#9
acchaplin Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2023 Posts: 218	Re: '32 Roadster top color There is NO stayfast color that is an exact match, you will have to choose (to your eye) the lesser of evils. Perhaps the two attached photos will help you as to the "Green hue" of the true original stayfast color (with David's blessing, hoepfully) IF you look at the two attached photos of these extraordinary restorations you will see how the top material has a "greenish/olive"y" hue to the appearance. Especially the 37 picture THANK YOU! Ah,,,,,, I "see" now sez the blind man! What confused me was, I didn't see any "olive" hue in David's pictures! David's pictures the top looks Oyster with a similar backing, or Tan(ish) with a similar color backing. David told me that Stayfast makes the closest '32 top material. Fine and dandy. Go into Stayfast's site, see two colors that (looks) are similar to David's pictures. Ask (post) a seemingly simple question, which one is the correct color,,,,,,,,,,? Then all hell breaks loose! Like I cussed out the Pope or something. Most of the rainbow colors are then mentioned further confusing, "now what!?" David mentions a "Dark Beige" Stayfast doesn't offer a "Dark Beige"! Very flustrating and confusing, when one is told about Stayfast, then told a color they don't offer!? Stayfast offers a plain Beige with a BLACK backing. Nothing is David's books shows a dark or black backing. Didn't know you needed David's,,,,,, blessing (!?) to explain (in detail) what this "olive" hue was. Thank you again for your detailed explaination! Now if someone can tell me the meaning of the "Red and Blue" top colors comment. I am going to surmise that David's comment, "Not a Oyster in sight." Means that the Oyster with tan backing color isn't the correct colored top? So that leaves the Tan w/tan backing must be the correct choice? Or,,,,,, are you guys privy to a color Stayfast makes that isn't listed,,,,,,, that is being mentioned?

04-25-2025, 11:40 AM	#10
DavidG Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: southeastern Michigan Posts: 10,597	Re: '32 Roadster top color Robert, Not an oyster in the house! Thanks. acchaplin, Between this posing and the numerous personal messages on this topic and the colors of the standard and deluxe upholstery material (they are not the same nor are the colors of their top material the same), you've worn me out. You are on your own henceforth. P.S. There are no tinted photos in the book. The photos are either black and white or in full color as captured by a camera.

04-25-2025, 04:46 PM	#12
tubman Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: Minnesota, Florida Keys Posts: 11,623	Re: '32 Roadster top color In situations like this, I like to use "sarcasm" emoji to clarify things. There are some people out there who seem to take everything seriously and need a little help.

04-26-2025, 08:08 AM	#13
acchaplin Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2023 Posts: 218	Re: '32 Roadster top color Reply to this DiscussionReply to Discussion \| Start new discussionNew Discussion << previous \|\| next >> Posted By Discussion Topic: Original 32 Roadster interior Printer-friendly Version send this discussion to a friend new posts last alumcantandthd 09-18-2021 @ 10:48 AM reply profile send p.m. Member Posts: 4 Joined: Sep 2021 Several questions, please. Where might I find good detailed pictures of a original Deuce Roadster interior? You know, like a 'blueprint' or something, that I can take to an upholstery shop? Has anyone bought a Deuce Roadster and removed the original interior for some other reason, that I 'might' be able to buy, bum, beg, borrow or steal? I have some decent detailed pictures of a DeLuxe Roadster interior from Cartouche. (rolling eyes, while shaking bowed head slowly back and forth) Reminds me of those 'custom fit' seat covers, upholstery panels, etc, JC Whitney sold in the '60's-'70's. I understand the kick and door panel pictures, but the other panels they have pictures of, I have no ideal where they are to go! Is the seat, part of the side, rear or back panel? Or does the 'back' panels goes from door post around to door post, then the seat set in? What I seem to have pictured in my mind, isn't what it actually is. Receiving a vague description is worse, because having Dyslexia doesn't help to get a fully 'mental picture' either. Thanks! 3w2 09-19-2021 @ 7:11 AM reply profile send p.m. Senior Posts: 876 Joined: Oct 2009 You can obtain copies of the original engineering drawings (blueprints) of the various upholstery components from the Benson Ford Research Center in Dearborn. However, you will the original part numbers of those components in order to obtain those drawings. The part numbers are listed in the 1932 body parts catalog (known as the "Body Parts Price List"), which is available in reprint form from many hobby dealers. (Used reprints and originals often show up for sale on Amazon and ebay.) The illustration below is from that catalog and it shows most of the various components of the deluxe roadster interior. It is a fairly simple interior consisting of a pair of cowl side, door, and seat side trim panels for the front compartment in addition to the seat bottom and back cushions. The seat side (or shoulder) trim panels terminate beyond the back of the sides of the seat back cushion. They are independent and do not attach to the seat back cushion sides. In other words, in response to your last paragraph, no upholstery trim or multiples of it, extend from door post to door post (B pillars in automotive speak). You will not likely find any good photo of the area behind the top of the front seat back cushion known as the package tray. The first attached photograph is from Ford's archives and gives an overall elevated view of the interior upholstery. Unfortunately, with the top down, and the top boot in place, nothing of the area behind the top of the front seat back cushion is shown. It is very narrow, front to back, and with the top in place even a photo inside would not be either easy to take or be all that informative. You can see part of the vertical portion of the trim on the belt rail in the second photograph (the fasteners shown are for the attachment of the top boot). The horizontal or bottom portion of the package tray is formed by two upholstery-covered curved and lipped steel panels, which you presumably have in bare form. The rear of the two is permanently attached to the front of the upper back panel of the body and the front piece is attached with wood screws to the back of the framework of the front seat back cushion. When the seat back cushion is installed that front piece fits beneath and is attached to the rear piece with oval-headed nickel-plated screws and finishing washers thereby securing the back of the front seat cushion to the body structure. (There are two sets of holes for each attachment point allowing a slight adjustment of the front seat back cushion.) The remainder of the trim for the package tray involves the trim covering the curved wood rail on the top edge of the upper back and quarter panels. If you provide your email address I can send you LeBaron Bonney's instructions for the front seat back installations and how the curved wood rail and the rest of the package tray is trimmed. The rumble seat compartment upholstery consists of five components, namely the two cushions, a pair of side trim panels, and textured heavy cardboard panel covering the back of the front seat back cushion. Portions of all of those components are shown in the attached photos. David (as in DavidG on fordbarn.com) P.S. While I loaded the photos in the order of the text, this site produces them in reverse order; sorry. (Bruce, That's something for your to do list.) This message was edited by 3w2 on 9-19-21 @ 7:15 AM alumcantandthd 09-20-2021 @ 3:55 PM reply profile send p.m. Member Posts: 4 Joined: Sep 2021 THANK YOU! I 'see' now sez the blind man! Your picture there really helped me understand! Thanks again! Ok, I have to 'make,' or get ideas on how to make, a (#?) piece panel for the sides and back from the "B" pillar all the way around to the other side pillar. For I have 'made' my seat. It's a couple inches wider, bottom and back than the replacement OEM seat frames they sell. I used three of those rear seats that are in the Ford Econoline Vans to make the frame, hinges, springs and foam. Plus, my windshield is chopped, so my seat has to set a little lower, and still have spring and foam comfort. Not just the hi-density sculptered foam I see the 'custom' seats are made of. The simple stitching design pattern that are on the door panels, I can 'extend' around to the panels beside and behind the seat. The back of the seat I made, folds forward, and the bottom part lifts up, (not at the same time) for storage space, also the hinges are hidden. It will 'resemble' a OEM roadster seat somewhat. I was thinking, I could use the Cartouche interior kit, then 'copy' the panels design behind the seat. Not now, after seeing 'their' picture construction, no way! Here is my email addy, for you to send me LB's picture instructions. (or ANY other pictures) [email protected] Thank you again for your help. 3w2 09-20-2021 @ 7:10 PM reply profile send p.m. Senior Posts: 876 Joined: Oct 2009 So, why here and on fordbarn.com did you make no mention up front of using a non-original seat and your ideas as to the rest of the upholstery? Quite the contrary, you strongly implied that you wanted original type upholstery. HAMB is the site you need for your kind of car as this one is for information on cars that more or less fall with the mandate of the Club which is to preserve the cars as they were built by Ford. alumcantandthd 09-25-2021 @ 2:58 AM reply profile send p.m. Member Posts: 4 Joined: Sep 2021 Wow! I really do know know how to respond to your __________ (rolling eyes while shaking bowed head slowly back and forth) ____ comment! Please accept my humble, sincere, apology for insulting your ego! I did NOT know that I am required (by law?) to build 'my' car, with 'my' $$$, to 'your' standards!? Do you also 'correct' others that have a 'restored' looking car, only the entire body is fiberglass,,,,,,,,,? However,,,,,,, your pictures helped me a lot on understanding how the OEM interior panels were installed around the seat, and how I can 'make' the seat upholstery, and the panels around and behind the seat I made, look OEM. Thank you. Googling, 'original' Deuce Roadster interior pictures turned up everything but OEM. I asked for pictures on the HAMB site, but was refered to 'this site.' I thought NOT cutting up one of those $$$ re-production '32 seat frame and springs, modifying it to sit a little lower. That taking 3 seats given to me for free, and making a 'folding' OEM looking seat would be a better idea. But (sigh) I was wrong. I won't mention how I made a 1940's-early 1950's OEM 'looking' oil bath air cleaner outta' a couple of hubcaps. 3w2 09-25-2021 @ 8:59 AM reply profile send p.m. Senior Posts: 876 Joined: Oct 2009 If you did not know how to respond, why did you bother? I repeat, HAMB is the website for rods, this one isn't for rods. RETRACT. I stated that I started in "late '22" working on the OEM style Roadster interior. I found out I was wrong on the date. Here is some "flack" I ran into in 2021!

04-26-2025, 12:07 PM	#14
glennpm Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: Mid-Coast Maine Posts: 2,815	Re: '32 Roadster top color Yesterday I took a number of these pictures outside in good light. Today I adjusted the white balance in Gimp, a graphic program. This picture of T14-GT Green-on-Tan, is the result and it is a perfect match to my sample. __________________ Archives of historical but relevant older articles: ------------- Hover mouse over the links below and click! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~--------------- Rumble Seat's Notes Techno-Source-for-the-1932-thru-1953-Flathead-Ford

04-26-2025, 09:40 AM	#15
hotrodA Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Rogersville, TN Posts: 834	Re: '32 Roadster top color Paging @Ryan to the red phone. Is there any more popcorn? Last edited by hotrodA; 04-26-2025 at 10:37 AM.

04-26-2025, 12:22 PM	#16
glennpm Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: Mid-Coast Maine Posts: 2,815	Re: '32 Roadster top color Regarding seat springs, Synder's provides all of them I believe. They'll also make a custom 2" high versus stock's 3" too. https://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/s...=&searcht=1932 __________________ Archives of historical but relevant older articles: ------------- Hover mouse over the links below and click! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~--------------- Rumble Seat's Notes Techno-Source-for-the-1932-thru-1953-Flathead-Ford

04-26-2025, 03:23 PM	#19
glennpm Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: Mid-Coast Maine Posts: 2,815	Re: '32 Roadster top color You're welcome David. I knew Lee very well, a wonderful person and thoughtful. When I was piecing together my'32, I had access to Lee's fantastic original roadster that he kept in the shop out back. I wonder who has it now? I took many dimensions and photos during the process on many a Saturday morning. My '40 convertible was used for the original LB pattern. My'40 had been reupholstered over the original materials but it was a struggle for them! We talked a few times about sourcing materials. Most of his wool interior materials were sourced in England. He was fussy about originality and showed me some of the sample rejects, shaking his head :-) __________________ Archives of historical but relevant older articles: ------------- Hover mouse over the links below and click! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~--------------- Rumble Seat's Notes Techno-Source-for-the-1932-thru-1953-Flathead-Ford

04-26-2025, 04:07 PM	#20
DavidG Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: southeastern Michigan Posts: 10,597	Re: '32 Roadster top color My first contact with them was with Jack back in the mid-60s with my first '32 roadster restoration and then with Lee when Jack retired. They were a pleasure to work with as our originality goals were the same. I relied on them for all of my Ford restoration projects' tops and upholstery and I provided engineering drawing copies to fill in some of the blanks. When they decided to take the plunge with Haartz and contract for the necessarily-custom made T-14 top material in the late '70s or early '80s, they were concerned that there wouldn't be enough demand for it to justify the minimum quantity that they had to commit to purchase. Accordingly, they offered at least some of their customers a one-time offer to purchase a full roll of it. I still have a small amount left from the roll that I bought. With Lee's passing and the retirement/loss of key employees, the firm's demise became an obvious eventuality, but I relied on them up to the very end even as things started to fall apart in the hands of the third set of owners.