Modified Soft Top For ERA FIA

[Rickd]

Good afternoon Bob - would it be feasible for your upholstery shop to work with me on a "modified" top = to serve primarily as a sun shield?

-NO REAR WINDOW
-Open up the rear window area for air flow

The Florida sun is brutal and even with sun screen, hat, etc., it is not doing my skin cancer any good!! (just had 5 spots biopsied today!!) I tend to take the car out only early am and at night - I would really like to get a modified top as a sun shield, with sufficient air flow so it's not an issue at 70 mph. What do you think?

[strictlypersonl]

Rick,

We get the complete (except for the header wrap) tops from an outside supplier, but I don't see why the rear window couldn't be replaced with a zip-in section. (I'm so generous with Jack's talent ) You should probably should talk to Jack about this before I get in too much trouble.

Do you already have a top? If so, we should modify yours, since a new top would require fitting.

[Rickd]

Bob, I have no top, wouldn't "1 size fit all" for ERA FIA's?

[strictlypersonl]

Originally Posted by Rickd

Bob, I have no top, wouldn't "1 size fit all" for ERA FIA's?

We've always done them on an individual basis. If the distance between the rear snaps and the windshield frame is off by even 1/8", the top might not be taut enough. (almost spelled that taught...) There's lots of possible points of variation including where the body is on the chassis and at what angle the windshield is secured.

We can put the new insert into the basic top for you fit though.

[Rickd]

Just came across a custom soft top manufacturer. They build a 360 drgree frame - that is mounted on the body first - and the top - once in place - does NOT bow & flutter. The company is Rod Tops DTS in Wisc. Check out their cobra tops on the Factory Five Racing website - FFR offers the 'standard top' and the 'deluxe - Rod Tops' top for those wanting a real upgrade.