C1 - Convertible Top Snap Strap

[Brad K.]

Can anyone comment on the mounting location for a '59 convertible top snap strap about 8" long and 1" wide that mounts somewhere on the top frame and acts as snap fastener that keeps the top somewhat compressed as it lies under the closed decklid? Some photo's would really be nice!

I've got questions such as:
- Which piece of the frame does it screw to?
- Ditto on where does the snap fastener go?
- Does it have to be wrapped around the frame before the top cloth is installed or can it be located later?
- Where does it lie when the top is up? Does it dangle in the breeze?

I even bought Al Knoch's top installation video and it's not in there! There nothing in the AIM. The JG mentions it but is not clear on mounting location.

Thanks in advance!

[Richard F.]

Re: C1 - Convertible Top Snap Strap

There's a small hole through the center of the lower deck. It's located 1/2" towards the drivers side and 1 1/4" forward of the center screw (there are three screws at the back of the deck which are somewhat random placement. The hole is centered to the top, side to side ... more or less).You may find it is under the protective material. I don't have a strap... never did. Just one more thing on my list of things that aren't there or are different from the supposed norm. Extensive search found no other attachment points that have been used and the hole still has the original spray around and in it. Not much help I know, but suspect this is the attachment point.

[Rob M.]

Re: C1 - Convertible Top Snap Strap

Hi Brad,

Here some pictures someother friendly restorer colleague sent me in the past:




They are small but should give you some clues on the proper location.

When the top is on the car the straps snap into a snap which is on the strap itself (it is part of the bolt which attached the strap to the rear bow).

When the top is stored in the soft top compartment the straps snap into the snap mounted on the window post (rear post). Near the top of this post is a little hole to mount the snap onto (on the inner board side of the post).

I hope this makes sense for you. If needed I can produce some hi-res pictures of my own car to show you more detail.

greetings,
Rob.

[Rob M.]

Re: C1 - Convertible Top Snap Strap

Here some better quality pictures (of my own car) of the straps and snap:




I hope these answer all your questions...

greetings,
Rob.

[Brad K.]

Re: C1 - Convertible Top Snap Strap

Thanks a lot, Rob, for the extra set of photos....now I know where everything is supposed to go!

[Richard F.]

Convertible Top Snap

Was I out to lunch or what?