C1 Convertible Top Question

[Allen W.]

I am in the middle of installing a new soft top and reproduction frame onto my 56. The frame came from Sully's thru Paragon. I called him today to ask a few questions. I have to ask some questions because my car came to me with no top or frame. Nice guy. However when I asked him about the size of staples to use he said 1/2" deep staples. When I got home and looked at the top I don't see how that is correct as the thickness of the tack strip is maybe only half that. Tom Crockatt's article in the Restorer Mag says to use "3/32" by 3/8" long" staples. I guess I need to know the convention of how to quote staples sizes. Can someone help me with this. Please be specfic. Penetration depth?Industrial catalogs like Mc Master Carr talk about leg length and crown width. Maybe Sully meant 1/2" crown width?
Allen
stampors@gamewood.net

[Roy B.]

Re: C1 Convertible Top Allen

Tom Crockatt has for gotten more then most people know. He's right , just go to your hardware store and ask for them.Sully's top frame assy? ( good luck ).

[James F.]

Re: C1 Convertible Top Question

Allen,
I went through this when installing my '56 top. AFAIK, 3/32 wide staples do not exist anymore (Tom's article is quite old). After a lot of research, I used Arrow type T50 stainless steel staples, 3/8", item #506. Staples have a 3/8" deep bite. They work fine. Also, 1/2" copper tacks in place of the 1/2" steel tacks the General used worked well for me (the top frame may rust away but my staples and tacks won't!) . If you send me your address, I'll mail you 1/2 box of the stainless steel staples (offer good for one '56 owner only!!). Regards,

[Allen W.]

Re: C1 Convertible Top Question

Jim Thanks for your response. I have sent an off line e mail to you with my address.
Allen