I just bought a convertible top for my TR4 from a U.S. vendor who sources
from the UK. The top was special order, and cost more than a Robbins
replacement, but I wanted a zippered rear window, and this was apparently
the only available source.
Well, I got the top last week, and there are several non-OEM design features
that concern me. Specifically:
1) There are no hooks provided for the leading corners of the top to
attach it to the windshield frame corners. Don't these hooks keep the top
tight across the door opening and ensure that the window seals correctly
against the top flap? The initial response I got was the hooks are NLA.
2) There are no elastic straps fitted to the tops of the door openings.
Same question as No. 1.
3) There are thin straps of sewn top material fitted vertically to the
inside of either front corner of the top, with the top ends of these strips
unattached. I have no idea what these are for.
The vendor tells me he's an MG guy, and doesn't know anything about Triumph
tops. He finally agreed to convey my questions back to the manufacturer,
but between bank holidays and the vendor's travel schedule, I can't seem to
get any complete answers.
I'd like to get the group's collective opinion on whether this sounds like a
reasonable variation on the OEM design, or should I be thinking that I've
got a less than acceptable top on my hands. What the heck are the extra
straps at the forward edges for?
Thanks, as always.
Dean Mericas
1965 TR4
1974 2000 GTV
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