Topic: 1968 Shelby KR June 3 1968 Convertible Top Question

[dwdshelby]

Hi and Merry Christmas

I have searched the site and was unable to find many specifics so I am hoping someone might be able to educate me.

In particular, many of the new replacement rear glass have a large "reinforced" joint, a plastic zipper (vs brass?) and no snap strip. I am thinking those are not correct that it should be a small plastic joint-bend, a brass zipper and it should have a snap strip?

As well there are two types of rear pads - rectangular (like the top pad) and trapezoid- which would be more correct?

Who would you suggest to contact to get the best most authentic top for this car? Some have suggested Kee or Electron - any suggestions?

Thanks
Dwdshelby

[ruppstang]

To be correct it must be a brass zipper with a leather tang, Snap strip, smaller glass joint, Cotton top pads and two piece plastic rear bow wire cover.
I am not sure what rear pad you are speaking of? The one glued on the wheel house?

I used a top from Robins.

Jeff at R & A Motor Sports has had some of the best custom made reproductions that I have seen. jeff@r-amotorsports.com

Marty

[TLea]

Dont forget almost everybody's tops have the 21" bow height. Originals are 19-20" The guy that makes the tops for Jeff (and others like me) can do correct bow. Also if you have original rear window they can real hinge it and polish

[dwdshelby]

Hi and thanks ...

As far as the rear pads, I was referring to the rear quarter pads that are under the rear sail portion of the top cover that staple on the rear bow and the rear side tack strips.

My old top (not original) has a trapezoidal rear quarter pad but some of the other top kits I have seen lately are just rectangular pads like the top pads. Thus I was not sure if my older set are more authentic to the original as that top kit did have the proper rear window characteristics you mention ...

Thanks
Dave

[dwdshelby]

Hi, as per the earlier post, the brass zipper has a leather tang.

I was going to try and reproduce that detail .... does anyone have a picture of an original zipper with the leather tang to help in that effort?

Thanks and blessings
Dave