MGB MGB Convertible Top

[Mickey Richaud]

Yes, I know it's been covered, and yes, I know how to fold it.

But I need some guidance, anyway: I had a local auto upholsterer install the Sun-Fast (I think that's the brand) canvas top on our '73 B. I've never been able to fold it properly, and just now, when I put it down to make a coffee run, a possible reason dawned on me. Here's the question: Should the last rib on the top frame have the top permanently attached? On ours it is fed through a "loop" of fabric; as a result, the frame won't fold all the way down, and all the top fabric gets bunched up. Also, the quarter-windows won't fold in as they should. Thinking about slitting that "loop" and replacing it with velcro, as my TR8 top has.

 

[rick_ingram]

Yes...the bar was intended to be held in place with the fabric. I loosely wrap the fabric around the bar and glue it to itself..NOT to the bar.

Your use of velcro has merit.

 

[bob67bgt]

Mickey, On some MGb top frames I have run into the bar just behind the front header bar turns. Its not supposed to turn. Check that area for a possible problem. Bob

 

[Mickey Richaud]

Yes...the bar was intended to be held in place with the fabric. I loosely wrap the fabric around the bar and glue it to itself..NOT to the bar.

AHA! That may be the problem. The fabric is definitely glued to the bar, and the top material won't "rotate" when folding the top back.

Your use of velcro has merit.

Not sure if I can adapt it at this point, but it sure is nice on the TR8. (Won't comment on TR vs MG debate here! ) Will have to look into changing it.

 

[Mickey Richaud]

Mickey, On some MGb top frames I have run into the bar just behind the front header bar turns. Its not supposed to turn. Check that area for a possible problem. Bob

Thanks, Bob. It does pivot, but it sure appears that it's by design. So which way should it be placed when folding?

 

[bob67bgt]

If you look at the first bow you will see a piece of metal welded to the bow or top frame. It has a flat spot on it designed to hold the bow in a specific position. If it turns out of position when folding the top it will keep it from fully folding into the rear section of the car. If you need a pic I can probably get one of that area on Monday. I glue my tops directly to the rear bow and do not have any problems with folding the tops. Bob

 

[Mickey Richaud]

If you look at the first bow you will see a piece of metal welded to the bow or top frame. It has a flat spot on it designed to hold the bow in a specific position. If it turns out of position when folding the top it will keep it from fully folding into the rear section of the car. If you need a pic I can probably get one of that area on Monday. I glue my tops directly to the rear bow and do not have any problems with folding the tops. Bob

Thanks, Bob. Just watched John Twist's video, posted on another thread (thanks, Paul161!), and he mentions glueing the top to the frame as well.

I fold mine exactly the way John outlines, so there's something definitely amiss. I'll take another look at the first bow and see what's happening there.

I'm also wondering if it's symptomatic of the canvas' being thicker and less pliable than the vinyl. My just have to live with it...

Mickey

 

[PAUL161]

I loosely wrap the fabric around the bar and glue it to itself..NOT to the bar.

This is how I do it also and never had a problem. PJ

 

[GaryBeu]

Is it necessary to glue the top to the header rail? Or can you just count on the riveted channel to hold it sufficiently?

 

[JPSmit]

I glued my header rail (remember Midget) it was glued before and so I figured I'd do it again - found it much easier to mount the header rail as I didn't have to have the top clamped taught underneath while I was doing it.

 

[GaryBeu]

It's been YEARS since I had a Midget so I don't remember the difference between it and a B top :frown:.

 

[JPSmit]

I don't know either except to say I found it easier to glue to the header rail

 

[aeronca65t]

For others considering a new MGB top....

My '69 "scizzors top" frame seemed like it was intended to destroy the top.
I needed a new top anyway, so I converted to the old style "erector set" top.
Not as handy, but much easier on the top in the long run. My top (and frame) are hanging on bicycle hooks on my gagrage wall right now. If weather looks dicey, I wrap the top in a large towel and bring it along (with the frame).

 

[PAUL161]

If weather looks dicey, I wrap the top in a large towel and bring it along (with the frame).

<span style="font-size: 10pt"><span style="font-weight: bold">Nial, wouldn't it be easier just to take along a big</span><span style="font-weight: bold"> umbrella?</span> </span>

 

[aeronca65t]

:lol:
With the brolly <span style="text-decoration: underline">up</span>, I'd have to keep speeds under 25 mph....not too likely