I am in the process of repairing my convertible top.

Does anyone have a drawing of the wood bow with dimensions that goes across the front of the drop top frame.

My restoration project does not have one and would like to use my wood working skills to make one.

Any information would be greatly appreciated

Submitted by coventryclassi… on Fri, 05/11/2012 - 12:09

Robert,
A good trim shop should be able to remove your old gasket and figure out your problem. If the front header doesn't fit the windscreen it will be a problem getting any gasket / seal to stop the leak. A lot of wind pressure forcing the water in. Make sure the frame fits and the latches are adjusted with no seal in place. Also check the top chrome molding on the windscreen. It should be sealed to the glass. Good luck.
Cheers Tom

Submitted by rgrisar@hotmail.com on Thu, 05/10/2012 - 14:24

Hello Tom:

I bought my XKE about 4 months ago. The front leaks at the center of the windshield. The car is 41 years old, otherwise pristine. The bow (and convertible top) were replaced by the prior owner.

I had no idea that replacement front wood bows were other than correct (curvature). I cannot image how any source would have difficulty matching the curvature of the fixed windshield, but alas. Mine extends beyond the windshield in the front. No adjustment or gasket replacement has solved the problem. I am thinking of making my own gasket to fit the groove in the wood bow, and extend outbound, over the windshield, and trim to fit.

Have you (or others) had any experience with this.

Cheers, Bob G.

Submitted by coventryclassi… on Thu, 05/10/2012 - 14:13

Marco,
The last three I received, all from different suppliers, had a different curve from one side to the other. We had to band saw and re-curve them. Good luck & keep us posted if you get a good one.
Cheers Tom

Submitted by SE98-32482CJ on Thu, 05/10/2012 - 10:14

Marco your woodworking skills must be extensive. It is a very complex part and your time might be much better spent simply ordering one from someone like SNG Barratt. I doubt you will find a drawing outside of a heritage supplier like SNG and they will not release it. While I have had made some wood for Jaguar I found out long ago it ends up being more work and with a much less satisfactory fit than a supplied part. Good luck!