Kennedy Convertible Top

[Duane D.]

My 1970 convertible with a 20-year old Al Knoch (non-Kennedy) top took a point-beating when judged 10 months ago. The judge suggested that I install a new Al Knoch top with the Kennedy pattern and the small diameter windlace. Searching the archives, I found alot of older threads dealing with the lack of quality and authenticity of these tops. Have newer versions of the Kennedy tops solved the problems of the older versions? Would the recommended top be the current recomendation of NCRS judges?
Duane Dunlap

[Kirk M.]

Re: Kennedy Convertible Top

Just ordered a Kennedy pattern top from Al a few weeks back and plan to have it installed next week. Here is what I learned:

1. Order the Kennedy Pattern as a kit (not listed so I don't know price but top kit is $280.00)
2. Al Original Date Stamp ($75.00)
3. Al Original Tack Strip ($58.00)
4. Original 67 Windlace (I do not see this on Al's website as a separate entity - anyone ordered this from Al?)
5. I Assume I should replace the weatherstripping while I'm at it? (Al's weatherstrip kit is $205.00 and the fastener kit is $17.00)
6. I already have an original set of tack strip tips, so I am good there.

Bill's pics pretty well say it all. However, to clarify a few points...
The production front windlace foam was 3/8" diameter, not 1/2" as is supplied in most kits.

The front reveal of the windlace was flush to the front of the top, not projecting beyond it.

The material for both front and "Middle" windlaces is the "Madrid" leather grain vinyl, not the top weave material.

The length from the seam down to the tip of the arrowhead is approximately 5 to 5-1/2". Best to position this into the existing hole in the frame left by the original top. Most replacements fall obviously short.

Regarding the lengths of the windlace material, most kit material is provided too short and the person installing the top will have to make their own.

And, yes, the ends simply roll inward and tuck upward under the top.
All of these details and more with pics are covered in the newly revised '66 JG.

I agree with most, but the front bead is actually turned in and sewn on the end to form the bend, not folded.

You will also note that there are no staples showing. The staples are under the flap and the material covers them and is tucked under the weatherstrip.

There is a little notch in the top frame header where the front windlace tucks under. I've heard (but haven't tried it) that it would be worth it to taper the foam bead in the windlace where it tucks in under to give you a smooth curve, or maybe sew it tighter.

There is a Restorer story on this top, and my attempt, in the Winter 2007-2008 issue, Vol 34 No 3.


Kirk

[Paul D.]

Re: Kennedy Convertible Top

Kirk, good to hear of your success with the " Kennedy " top from Al. However, I think Duane is looking for a top for his 1970. Isn't the " Kennedy " top pattern a 1963 - 1967 only item? I would suggest calling Al and telling him about any judging concerns. I bet he offers more than one level of " correctness " since some people just need a top and others need a correct top and correct always costs more! Chip.

[Duane D.]

Re: Kennedy Convertible Top

Paul and Kirk,
Thanks for your response. Yes, I am looking for a correct top for my 1970 convertible.
Duane

[Loren L.]

Re: Kennedy Convertible Top

Rather than calling Al, why not just call John Kennedy?