TR2/3/3A TR3A top frame color

[BJ8Healeys]

Hello, Triumph fans -

I am refinishing the "convertible" folding top frame of a TR3A. The car was originally white, but now is red. I found traces of white paint on the top frame that appear to be original.
Was the top frame always painted body color?

Thanks,

 

[Geo Hahn]

That is my understanding... certainly was the case with my (red) car.

TR4 top frames OTOH seem to have been consistently an off-white/light tan.

 

[TomMull]

Piggott mentions black also and I think that is supported by the judging handbook. However, I don't think that the black was ever very common. Tom

 

[Andrew Mace]

Generally, the top frames were body color on the TR2/3/3A, but apparently late 3A and 3B models got the same "Saddlewood" tan color frames as did the TR4.

 

[BJ8Healeys]

Thanks to all for the responses. I forgot to mention, this car is an early TR3A (Commission No. TS21904). It seems that everyone is in agreement that the frame then should be the same as body color, which now is going to be red. If there is anyone who can confirm otherwise, please let me know ASAP. I will be painting the frame later today.

 

[Geo Hahn]

Now you can ask what color (if any) to paint those little metal plates that hold the straps.

 

[BJ8Healeys]

O.K., I'll bite.......

 

[Geo Hahn]

I can't say for sure.

On my TR3A they were also body color but I can't swear that was original or correct.

On my TR4 they were unpainted which seemed strange but was definitely original.

 

[luke44]

Here's how I voted....

 

[thechileman]

Hey Geo! for what it is worth, those little plates that hold the straps are unpainted on my '64 as well. I believe them to be unmolested originals... (well at least until I molested them and replaced the straps.) Nice work Luke!!

 

[Marvin Gruber]

I've replaced them on 3's,4's and 6's. All unpainted but I go back with them silver

Marv

 

[BJ8Healeys]

The webbing retainer plates on the TR3A I'm working on appeared unpainted, but had some significant surface rust. The unrusted areas appeared to be plated, but rust removal and metal treatment have now removed whatever plating was there. I will paint them the same color as the frame, for future rust prevention if nothing else. I am trying to replace missing parts and correct some things, but not doing a concours restoration.

I appreciate all of the advice and suggestions. Thank you.