Top Interchangeability.

[Cigarboxrob]

....Although I’ve seen some aspects of this topic beaten like a dead horse, I’ve never received a proper answer.

....I’m the owner of a 1926 Touring; I was originally promised top irons for my car, but they never materialized. As 1926-27 cars are a bit different than earlier variants, may any other years of top irons be used? There are differences in windshields, but at this point, I’m interested in real-life experiences with: “Compatibility.” Thanks in advance!

[Wayne Sheldon]

I have noticed you asking this question before. And seem to recall a few insufficient answers including maybe one from me?
I can't give enough details, and hope someone that actually has had both different tops can offer some real help. But basically, a '23 through '25 model years one-man touring car top CAN be made to work on a '26/'27 touring car. As they are meant to be, it will NOT fit well, but I know it can be done because I have seen it myself. With some minor alteration, the earlier top could be made to fit fairly well. It would probably be something that people that really know those years could spot it (been there, done that on earlier stuff myself!). But a bit of lengthening here, shortening there, a bit wider or narrower, could make the '23/'25 top fit and work well. I don't know which top cover kit would work best? Probably whichever is larger could be cut down a little to fit.

On a personal note, unless I get VERY lucky fairly soon, I will be doing a similar modification to make top pieces I have fit and work for my '15 runabout because I cannot afford to pay the current going rate for a "15 top.

[RajoRacer]

The '26 - '27 open car top irons have a defined curve at the body attachment point - what that purpose is, I can't tell you but it's the best way to determine which is the correct year that they were made for.

[Allan]

Robert, effectively the 26-7 T's are different cars than the rest of the 20's T's. As Wayne suggests, you could probably make an earlier top fit. With same amount of work, you might even get a top off a Chev to fit, but if you have to do that much work, why not spend the same time on the correct top.
There is nothing that detracts more from a car than an ill fitting, ill proportioned top to my eyes.

Allan from down under.