Finishing top bows

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Topic author
Gary Gregory
Posts: 71
Joined: Sun Jan 06, 2019 1:28 pm
First Name: Gary
Last Name: Gregory
* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1927 Model T Roadster
Location: Maryville Tn

Finishing top bows

Post by Gary Gregory » Mon Apr 22, 2019 6:37 pm

What type of finish should I apply to the wood before installing the top material ? I have some very clear oak I plan to use. I'm thinking Marine Polyurethane ? I have a old can of Danish rubbing oil that may work also.


Erik Johnson
Posts: 850
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First Name: Erik
Last Name: Johnson
Location: Minneapolis, MN

Re: Finishing top bows

Post by Erik Johnson » Mon Apr 22, 2019 6:42 pm

No need to paint, varnish or seal the bows.

They are covered with bow drill and the top keeps the elements off of them.

If your car is kept in good storage when not in use, the bows will last forever.


Jerry VanOoteghem
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Last Name: Van
Location: S.E. Michigan
MTFCA Number: 24868

Re: Finishing top bows

Post by Jerry VanOoteghem » Mon Apr 22, 2019 9:03 pm

Erik is correct. However if you HAD to do something to them, you could simply brush on some flat black paint. That would be my choice if I felt so compelled, which I would not ;)


Topic author
Gary Gregory
Posts: 71
Joined: Sun Jan 06, 2019 1:28 pm
First Name: Gary
Last Name: Gregory
* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1927 Model T Roadster
Location: Maryville Tn

Re: Finishing top bows

Post by Gary Gregory » Mon Apr 22, 2019 9:15 pm

Thanks for the replies. I just assumed the wood would need sealed. It will not be left out in the weather so I guess I'll leave them as is.


R.V.Anderson
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* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1914, 1920, 1923, 1923
Location: Kennedy, NY

Re: Finishing top bows

Post by R.V.Anderson » Wed Apr 24, 2019 3:09 pm

You didn't mention what type of bows you have. The plain, one-piece, steam bent type, which is the cheapest, will have a marked tendency to spread and/or twist with rising and falling humidity. In that case I'd definitely put something on them to forestall that unpleasantness. Marine spar would be my choice. Since they will be covered you don't have to get too crazy about sanding between coats.

If you have the laminated and steam bent style, the most expensive, then you likely don't have to worry about putting anything on them; this type will not have the tendency to spread or twist.

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