Correct C2 convertible top staple?

[Ian S.]

Hello,

What is the correct size and type of staple to use when installing a new convertible top on a '66 that would be factory correct?

Thank you,

Ian

[Bob B.]

Re: Correct C2 convertible top staple?

Ian,

Let me throw in a question on this, as well. It doesn't really matter since the staples aren't visible. However, since the tack strip is called a tack strip, I'm wondering if the factory used tacks? I have a piece of tack strip someone gave me that was supposed to have had the original top on it and it had tacks. So, what do the experts say?

Bob

[Kevin M.]

Re: Correct C2 convertible top staple?

Your right never looked at when I had my car judged, kinda a like pistons. And tack strip a means to "fix to; attached " not a tack.

KM

[Wayne W.]

Re: Correct C2 convertible top staple?

Hello,

What is the correct size and type of staple to use when installing a new convertible top on a '66 that would be factory correct?

Thank you,

Ian

The original staples were about 3/16 or so across the top, and they were fairly thin. I could dig up a picture somewhere, but as stated, they are not visible when assembled, even with the top back.

[Ian S.]

Re: Correct C2 convertible top staple?

Wayne,

If you could send a picture I would appreciate it.

Thanks,

Ian

[Wayne W.]

Re: Correct C2 convertible top staple?

Wayne,

If you could send a picture I would appreciate it.

Thanks,

Ian

This is not a midyear, but it is the same staple.

[Jack H.]

Re: Correct C2 convertible top staple?

Plus, since the staples are hidden once they're installed, you might want to consider 'cheating' and using either SS or brass to thwart rust...

[Bob B.]

Re: Correct C2 convertible top staple?

That is a good definition of tack, but for folks who have pulled apart an original top for the first time, did they find staples or tacks?

[Kevin M.]

Re: Correct C2 convertible top staple?

Staples are used to attach the top material to the tack strip.
Now my Grandfather use to have the job installing interiors in model A's and T's. Still have his tack hammer, story went he put a hand full in his mouth and used the magnetic end to grab a tack and hammer it in.

Kevin

[Gerard F.]

Re: Correct C2 convertible top staple?

Ian,

I've read in a 1992 Restorer Article, that the OEM staple was 1/8" crown by 5/16" length.

However, when I did my C2 top, I used SS No. 4 (3/8" crown) by 3/8" length with a manual stapler for the top to tack strips, and galvanized 1/4" crown by 1/2" with an air stapler for going through multiple layers of material such as the wireon, front windlace, and rear straps to tack strip.

[Ian S.]

Re: Correct C2 convertible top staple?

Thank you all for you help!

Ian