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Thanks Gary!

I had today off sonI made a major push.

On a recent parts expedition, found this chrome cane shifter top. So why not replace my old one with a little bling.

So I pulled the seats out, the carpet, floor board, sills, everything. Since I was going to have to take it apart to change the transmission too, I figure it was time to strip the floor and paint it.

Also had to make a transmission gasket and new top was missing one of the shaft plugs. Couldn't find a plug nearby, so I made one from a copper pipe cap.

Also i added the jute to carpet and put most of it back together. Also added the rubber boot to the shifter.

It was a long messy day.

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We are currently calling the interior "50 Shades of Brown".

I got a quote from a upholstery shop here in town. Apparently they thought I had a Bugatti with a budget to match… ooph! The leather they use must come from cows feed exclusively on Fabergé eggs!!

Yeah

That's why I'm learning to stitch.

It was nice going up . my dad school mates started a custom auto top business.

They did my dad 12 seats..

Not in real leather.. But I have the original ones

The son sold the business in 2000.

All their upholstery went to sms.

I know all these open cars originally had leather, but I am doing mine in a high quality fabric which I got myself at an outlet for what one door panel of leather would cost. My one brand new convertible has fabric and my other one has leather. Fabric is way more comfortable and you don't scorch yourself getting in while the car has been in the sun. I doubt that our cars will see rain let alone left in it with the top down!
It is not original, but I notice yours has no running boards and a continental spare...? Just saying there are always alternatives and usually for the better.
Bob J.

Actually, currently on the search for good replacement fenders that don't need a lot of work.

I joke that this is really my wife's car, and she likes the running boards.

Also, working on finding a trunk rack.

There is some severe inner rocker rust that needs to be delt with at some point in the future as well.

Modern convertibles use cloth because the synthetic fibers are not so sensitive to a bit of water. They will look really off in a prewar car. If you want cloth, look at what Packard offered as an option in the 1940's - leather bolsters and cord fabric inserts, either in harmonizing or contrasting colors. Used in the 19th,20th, 22nd, and 23rd series Seniors I believe.

I like running boards too! Coupe's equivalent to a tailgate!
Bob J.

I'm sad to hear that the bobbed fenders will be changed to running boards. That's what makes this car. Tell your wife I strongly suggest it is left as Mark did it. He knew good style.