Got all the convertible frame parts re-chromed, however, I am having no luck finding the hardware bits to put the frame back together. Can anyone offer some advise about where I might find the "glue" to hold the convertible top together?

i recently re-assembled the conv top frame on our 31 cabriolet. most of the shoulder bolts broke or had been replaced by others previously. i bought some hex-head stainless shoulder bolts, ground the hex heads to a convex shape and cut a slot in the ground heads as i was unable to find the correct chrome shoulder slotted screws. good luck, mike

For the glue I would check with a good interior shop in your area and see what they have been using for convertible tops.

You might also want to do a web search on 'convertible top glue' or ??? and see what you get.

Good Luck.

web search

Hi,

It has been a long time since I've looked at my top irons for my Cabriolet. If your just looking for nuts and bolts, try these people.

Auto Hardware Specialties
rweber2091@msn.com

Material Search Company

Otherwise if you need help to know what you need, just send me an e-mail and I will get you in touch with Ralph McEowen. Ralph has made some top irons for Landau's in the past and made my Phaeton top irons.

PS, nice display name.

Did you take out the rivets as well as the screws? If so you will need to install stainless rivets. If you can't find them try to find an retired machinist who will make them on his lathe. Many are tired of watching TV and will do a small job economically. I had a friend make a couple of sets of stainless shoulder screws for the rod style back bow but don't have any extras. 6 Landau Phaetons have used my back bow for a pattern or I have made a replacement for the missing part. Don't know why so many were missing that part.

Mike McCagh: Some of the shoulder bolts have been salvaged, however, they are either bent or the threads are stripped. So far I have not been successful in finding after-market replacements (and that may have more to do with the fact that I just don't know where to look!).

32 Confederate: I will follow your suggestion and look up Auto Hardware Specialties. I will email you as well - I may be in need of Ralph's services.

Chipper: The convertible top was completely dismantled by a restoration shop here in Ontario that most would do well to stay clear of. The shop did not take any photos of the convertible frame prior to dismantling. All rivets were destroyed when removed.
As far as a retired machinist - that would have been the owner of the car (my father-in-law), however he past away just before Christmas.

Your suggestions are worthwhile and I intend to pursue them. Any potential contacts are greatly appreciated.

32confederation (Canadian, eh!)

Sorry to hear of the loss of your father-in-law. Mine is 92 and in failing health. He was not a machinist so have found another or do some small jobs myself. You might also check with the local High School or Junior College. Many have vocational programs and looking for worthwhile projects for students. If they have night classes then you might sign up for a semester and make some parts yourself.

Cheers!