C2 Convertible Top Sizes

[Frank Merrifield]

Does anyone have any information on rear bow lengths on C2 convertible tops? An acquaintance insists that there were two different rear bow lengths - 86" and 88 1/2", resulting in replacement tops that didn't fit as the original did on the larger bow. It seems that, according to him, the Al Knoch tops were designed to fit the 86" bow length and when used on the larger bows, left weatherstripping at the side window back edge exposed. I have not heard of such a difference, has anyone else? If so, was this due to different suppliers in particular years, or for all C2s?

[Wayne W.]

Re: C2 Convertible Top Sizes

i dont think so.

[Gerard F.]

Re: C2 Convertible Top Sizes

Frank,

Not sure of the exact dimensions of the rear bow, but if you take a look at an original C2 top, they seem to be cut larger and fit the frame more loosely than replacement tops.

I attended a tech seesion at the Las Vegas Regional last year given by John Kennedy, and met with him on my 67 top which had been recently installed.

I understand from my conversation with the master himself, that the pattern for current replacement tops are cut a little short in certain areas. John has his own pattern cut a little larger, which has been given to Al Knoch, and that you can special order his pattern from Knoch.

I think the problem with the smaller pattern was the fit around the rear bow, side as well as the top of the window.

Jerry Fuccillo
#42179

[Alan Drake]

Re: C2 Convertible Top Sizes

Frank,
If you can give me two location to measure the rear bow I'll be glad to measure later tonight. Say from one pivet hole to other along the bow. Not sure how you are getting the 86" or so. Since my top is in car and up can not go beyond pivet points. (I'm getting around 66" however did not do a good job)
If you can find a pn I bet somebody has print of part with value.

[Frank Merrifield]

Re: C2 Convertible Top Sizes

Thanks for the responses, guys. I'll attempt to get more info from my acquaintance and follow up when received. Will also try to contact Mr Kennedy to try and find out more. I wonder if cars originally shipped with a hardtop in lieu of a soft top and then had the soft top fitted afterward may account for any differences.

[John M.]

Re: C2 Convertible Top Sizes

Jerry,

I just put a Knoch top on last week, and those are the areas that I had a problem with as well. His pattern is just too tight around the rear bow and up to the top of the window. My top is so tight you could play a tune on it! You can forget getting Al to make anything special order now days. I waited 3 months for him to make me a Stayfast top, and finally just found one on the shelf from Coffman!

Regards, John McGraw

[Jean C.]

Re: C2 Convertible Top Sizes

Frank, I suggest contacting John Kennedy. See the "Contacts" radio button on the NCRS home page. John's name appears following the Team Leaders. You can find his phone number in The Driveline.
Best regards,
Charlie

[Mike M.]

Re: C2 Convertible Top Sizes

Frank let us know what you find out. I will need a top soon for a 63.