Hardtop Build (part two)
Still much to do, but the major design decisions have been taken, and the rest will need to follow.
There is a desperate logic to the process hereon (where the design has not been committed to paper - rather the back of envelopes). Ideas still arrive - ie, the problem with most detachable sidescreens is that they rattle - a hinge may be provided near the top (an advantage of changing to sloping sides) and the roof doors can be designed to trap the top frame of the sidescreen when shut).
The logic is to make the bits in an order which reduced the possibility of error ie.(so far)
Brow
Back
(above largely done, then)
Targa/Bridge
Sidescreens
Roof Doors
- the last job will entail skinning the various components - highly skilled, and beyond me
State of play, July 2006
Brow
Targa/Bridge
The main part is made from 12 gauge ali folded and turned over the rear 8" to follow the contour from the rear section. From the above, it is just possible to see the door hinges every other one of which are welded to the bridge. The hinge pin is removable by unscrewing it from the tapped last hinge piece and drawing it out forwards - this can only be done with the bridge detached from the brow.
The pair of heavy-gauge tubes which slot into the brow and rear section have been carefully bent in parallel, and are ready to be welded in place. A water channel may be seen.
Water channels added and the door stays and sun visors are in place.