Convertible top rear end attachment

The 4A, 4AB, 4AC, 4AD cars, including the SM 1500 Roadster and SMX
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kabu
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Convertible top rear end attachment

Post by kabu »

Another detail that is still unclear to me is the attachment of the convertible top (hood) into the rear of the car body. I assume it it is fixed onto the front surface of the body opening above the rear hatch. It would be great if someone could provide pictures of this detail. Thanks.

BR/
Pekka
4ADT Roadster, 1954 --- http://www.guru-group.fi/kabu/singer
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Paul Bouchard
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Re: Convertible top rear end attachment

Post by Paul Bouchard »

Hi Kabu,
You are correct that the bottom edge of the top is attached to the wood spar that runs across the back of the compartment. I have seen what I believe to be original material still stuck on the spar that is doubled over making me think that a single layer of material may not be enough so it was folder over and attached with small nails or tacks.

On top of that is a thin aluminum strip that is attached over the material. This strip is about half an inch by one eight of an inch. The strip covers the material and follows the curve along the back of the compartment. The strip itself is attached by small screws.

Sorry but I do not have any photos of this. They are one of those pieces that usually get lost or forgotten when replacing the top or during restoration.

Paul
Paul Bouchard

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1948 A Series Roadster
1947 Super Ten Saloon
1935 Le Mans Super Speed Model

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kabu
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Re: Convertible top rear end attachment

Post by kabu »

Thanks Paul,

That sounds like the aluminum strip covering the row of nails may be similar that is used on attaching the windscreen bottom gasket onto the front bulkhead.

BR/
Pekka
4ADT Roadster, 1954 --- http://www.guru-group.fi/kabu/singer
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Peter McKercher
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Re: Convertible top rear end attachment

Post by Peter McKercher »

Kabu
I did not have an original strip for my SM 1500, but I would speculate that it would have been similar to the one on my Nine Sports. While a thin aluminum strip was fine for the windshield rubber, it would have been insufficient for the stress on the convertible top. The piece on my Nine is a half round piece of stock about 3/8" wide by 1/4" high with countersunk screw holes and wraps around the rear deck.
Peter McKercher
Vice President - NASOC
Pre war Singer Specialist and Collector
Automotive Historian
Author of "Racing Roadsters"

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