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Technical Need help finding parts- 31 Model A Coupe-vinyl top insert

Discussion in 'Traditional Hot Rods' started by Choppedcoupe, Mar 5, 2025.

  1. Choppedcoupe
    Joined: Oct 17, 2016
    Posts: 258

    Choppedcoupe
    Member

    On a bit of a time crunch-I've entered my Model A Coupe in the Arkansas Mile on May 2, 2025, and it hasn't run in at least 23 years. I entered the race to light a fire under my as- to force me to stay focused on it, and get it back on the road. Back when I acquired the car, "top kits" were available at all the Model-A parts suppliers. But, now that it is time to put a top in it, I'm finding nothing! Went to my local upholstery guy and he says $1000 labor, and I have to source my own parts. So, once I can find the parts, I'm gonna give a go at installing the top myself, since it needs to get done on a Saturday or Sunday, likely at 3 in the morning!

    Please help with sources for tack-strips (especially the curved one that goes around the side and back), chicken wire (will I be ok with galvanized from the feed store?), best padding, vinyl. I'm expecting the tack strips to be the hardest thing to source...

    Thanks!
     
  2. 325w
    Joined: Feb 18, 2008
    Posts: 6,501

    325w
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    Top it self is not bad. If all the wood is good your good. Padding from upholstery supply look at old style vinyl top material. Used it on my 32 top. Nice smooth easy to stretch . The metal trim will be tough. I used hide em welt till metal trim was found. Top installs like a model A with tacks. Recomendyou do the center tacked an d medium stretch. Get the centers done step back a check how even a centered you are. Then do some more tacks at the four sides. Whe your happy set the tacks.nice to have one helper. Center I mean on the outside perimeter
     
  3. RodStRace
    Joined: Dec 7, 2007
    Posts: 8,853

    RodStRace
    Member

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