top boot

[KWTownsend]

I am working on a pattern for a top boot (or top cover) for my 1911 touring car. Top boots were not a provided with cars in 1911, but were available as an aftermarket item. I have been working on a design based upon original photos from the era, as well as an example of an original aftermarket top and when the pattern is finished, I will send it to Mike at Classtique for his stitchery. Since it was not a factory item, I am taking some creative license.

Here is the old aftermarket boot:

It is on loan from Michael Paul. Made by the Auto Top Company of Portland Oregon.
It uses the side curtain fasteners on the top sockets to attach the boot (but don't line up on my car).

I really like the design of this one:

It also uses the side curtain fasteners on the top sockets to attach the boot.

I want to make sure the top boot does not "balloon up" while driving. The original top I'm working with has two straps that are attached to the bottom of the boot, with a flat loop on the top. Mike says on later (1913-1914) cars he sews boots with three straps. The center strap is sewn to the bottom of the boot and goes through a flat loop on the top. The two outer straps are just sewn to the top of the boot.

Here are some pics of the pattern:

I'm looking for other design ideas and input on the attachment of the straps.

I welcome your constructive input.

: ^ )

Keith

[Original Smith]

Keith: I find it hard to believe Ford didn't supply boots in 1911! But who am I to say? I've been interested in top boots for years, and have studied them extensively. My interests are 1913's so the information I'm aware of is for them. I have original boots for the runabout and the touring, and believe it or not both are made by the same company. There were two companies that made them. They both use three straps.
Ford introduced a new boot in 1916 that used no side flaps. This style was provided until 1922 I believe, when the boots were discontinued.
I make my own boots using the correct material available from the Haartz Corporation which makes it for Classtique. I also use original fasteners that I've collected, as the current styles just don't look right. It's fun to do this, and I made side curtains for my 1925 roadster too using original curtains, and Ford prints from the Benson Ford. I hope to make curtains for my '13 roadster one of these days.
'

[Scott Rosenthal]

Hello Keith:
Curious how the boot bottom panel is secured where this meets the rear panel of the body. What keeps this panel from sagging at its center?

Also curious how the top panel straps fasten under the seat cushion? Are these straps sewn to the top panel and then clipped to a footman loop or other hardware behind the seat cushion?

I'm not much concerned about creative license as long as my assembly looks credible and uses period hardware. I figure there were many who made these covers for Ford. and not likely any (2) were built identical.

Regards,
Scott

[JTT3]

Very nice job Keith, keep it going.

[Original Smith]

I have been corrected by a knowledgeable T restorer. The correct term is Top Dust Cover!