One of my winter upgrades is a top for my roadster pickup. The first step is to make a header. What wood should I use? I have the brackets that fasten to the windshield. The rest I will fabricate and then have it covered locally. Sent from my iPhone using H.A.M.B.
I'm actually putting a top on my roadster this winter. Going to use Ash for the header. I like the Ash because its much easier to work with than the Oak and the grain is very similar. I believe its just as strong also.
Birch was used a lot in cars because it is strong, resists rot and is closed grained. Oak is ok as long as it is white oak and not red oak. Red Oak is open grained ( full of open pores) which will retain water.. Ash is a great wood to use although it is more expensive.
We have some pretty tough yew wood here in B.C., quite hard but flexible, and rot resistant. It might be suitable.
There is not a bit of wood in my top. I formed, and welded 3/4" square steel for the frame and bows. The top is padded inside and out like a Carson top.
How did you attach the cloth to the steel ? Is this a folding top ? Did you keep patterns of the structure ? Any pics of the top being built ? Its a very attractive top !
1/8 panel board was pop riveted to the steel frame so the cloth could be stapled to the frame. Top does not fold, it lifts off like a Carson style top. No patterns. I laid an old bed sheet over the frame as I was building it to see what the shape would be when it was covered. Made it easy to get the height and angle of the rear and middle bow. I made the top frame because the windshield is chopped 3" and stock bows would not work. Sorry no photos of construction. The window panel zips out which is nice on hot days.
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