I am probably going to have to replace the vinyl top on my 1933 PD Deluxe R/S coupe. It was slightly damaged by the body shop doing the paint restoration. I have been told that the original fabric would've been vinyl and not leather. Anybody know for sure? If vinyl, does anyone know of a company selling vinyl fabric similar to the original? I have received mail from LeBaron Bonney Co., and they included fabric samples T-5, T-63, and T-65. Does anyone know if any of these codes would be appropriate for my car? Thanks for any assistance provided.
Robert
I know that auto reuposter/convertable top shops carry the material. Todd Fitch has an excellent article on how to @ http://www.ply33.com/Repair/roof
I've seen the original fabric described as rubberized canvas and I have seen vintage photographs that indicate that it had a smooth surface. I don't know what the Plymouth Owners Club considers authentic for that material, but my personal opinion is that it should be smooth.
When I was at that stage of work I did not find a supplier of material that had a smooth surface. So I went with the stuff sold by the Model A Ford stores.
I don't see top material on the LeBaron Bonney website that has your T-5, T-63 nor T-65 numbers. I see mention of "long grain", "short grain" and "colonial grain" material. None of that sounds like a smooth surface to me.
JimCno has already linked to my page for installing the roof insert, so I will spare you a second link.
It had a grain embossed into it that ran from the front to the rear of the car. I've heard it called 'cobra' grain style. The original was rubber impregnated linen with the rubber giving it the surface grain. The impression or 'grain' was callendered into the liquid rubber when the stuff was made. It was white cloth on the reverse side. The trouble with it was, as the years rolled on, the natural rubber died and? started to crack and the roof leaked. It's quite common today in the hobby and can be purchased from almost any of the restoration outfits. The modern version is vinyl stuck to a cloth backing and looks exactly the same as the 30s material. If I remember correctly it comes in a 6' wide roll and you buy it by the running foot.? I don't believe there was a 'Plymouth' version of the grain pattern. Although from the posts it seems there was different styles of grain.? ? ?