My dad died unexpectedly a couple weeks back. He had been working on an original 32 cabriolet. Unfortunately it is still a fair way from completion. The chassis, engine, and running gear is complete, The tub body work and paint is 75% complete. The fenders are in primer. The deck lid is in primer. The grille shell is in primer. He dash is in primer. No interior, though there is a rumble seat and front seat that have been refoamed. The SS top irons are in a box. I will likely have the guy that has been doing the body and paint finish the deck lid, grille shell, and dash It will be a few weeks before I can get some pictures, but I will post them when available. For most of the work I can do it, or know someone who can. The convertible top seems to be the most problematic. I already have the top irons, but the doesn’t seem to be any premade tops available. I assume this means it has to be custom made. Any advice would be appreciated.
Sorry for your loss. That is a very desirable 32, at least in my opinion, and it would be a great honor to your Dad’s memory to complete it. You seem to be well on the way. Having those top irons is a big plus. I’ve looked and looked for one but never could connect the dots from availability versus funds. Do join the Fordbarn as well. Lots of knowledgeable folks over there who would be of help. Post the pics when you are able.
I knew yer dad, George (may he rest in peace) GR 8 guy. He's blowin his bagpipes for the angels now. Re you situation with the top - any good trim shop in the valley can help you out with that
Walker, sorry for your loss. Are you restoring the Cabriolet, if you are, the top and the interior of a Cabriolet are probably one of the hardest parts of any 1932 restoration project. If you are on the Ford Barn site, a gentleman named Dave Rehor is the authority on 1932 Fords. Dave wrote the two book, 1932 Ford Book for the V-8 Club and the books are available from the Club, I highly recommend purchasing them. Dave will have the correct answers to all your questions. Finding an upholstery shop that can do the top correctly, will be one of your biggest challenges. Get on the Ford Barn site and ask the questions to Dave and you won't be sorry.
It is a hot rod project, not a restoration. So I don’t need to adhere to any strict guidelines, but it certainly helps to know what was there. I am sure there are a truck load of books at my dads house, it didn’t even occur to me, thanks.
Sorry for your loss. Completing your Dad's car will be fitting tribute and you'll still be sharing something with him.
Sorry for your loss and prayers. The cabriolet is a great body style and have the best of both worlds roadster and roll up windows and protection from sun and rain. I have one I drive and another body plus extra parts. Let me know how I can help.
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