Model T top sockets are
generally one of the last items restored on an open car. Original
top sockets are usually very rusty and bent and required a
considerable amount of work to restore them to perfection. The
steps to restore any tops sockets are:
1.
Straighten and align the socket. Reinforce and weld any cracks.
Tops sockets are under considerable stress from wind and the
elements, and it imperative the sockets are as structurally sound as
they can be. Tops that are of the “one man top” variety should be
disassembled as the straightening takes place. Rivets will need to
be ground off and reinstalled as the top assembly is put back
together.
2.
Clean the socket. Bead blasting is the best way to go because the
socket can be cleaned inside and out. If bead blasting is not an
option, use a wire brush, by attempt to clean the inside of the
socket as well as possible.
3.
Make the curved wood, reinforcing
strip that goes on the corner of each bow. This strip can be made
using 1/8th inch strips of yellow pine 1 ¼” wide. Take
the 1/8th strips and bend them to match the arch of the
bow. Use the curved portion of the socket as a guide. Place
waterproof glue on one side of each strip and laminate the strips
together. Insure the wood strips go at least 4” into the socket for
strength. Allow the glue to dry overnight, or place the socket/wood
strip into the oven and bake the glue. Once dry, remove the wood
strip and sand and fit the wood strip to the socket. This strip
will be held in place using the tabs on the socket and a rivet that
will go through the wood and the metal. The laminated strips are
extremely strong and durable.
4.
Fill the socket with fiberglass resin. The resin will provide
additional strength to the socket. A metal dowel (can be a
straightened coat hanger) can be inserted into the resin after the
resin has been poured into the socket to add more strength. Place
tape over any opening so the resin does not ooze out. Insure the
socket IS NOT overfilled with resin. Once the metal strip and the
resin have been placed in the socket, the wood strip can be
installed as the resin dries. This will bond the resin to the bent
wood strip.
5.
Sand any area where the resin has protruded. Re-rivet the bows as
required, prime the sockets and install the wood bows. The wood bow
must be riveted to the socket. Paint the bows and sockets with high
gloss black paint.
6.
Following this procedure will insure a strong and straight top. Good
Luck.
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