56 convertible front wood bow fitment

[2Dokas]

I am posting here rather than the convertible thread because that thread seems to go unread for long periods of time.

I have what seems to be a "aftermarket" bow made by someone long ago. Its made out of plywood so I know it's not original.

I am replacing it because the mounting holes attaching the bow to the frame are not really in the right place, and with a new one from Chucks shows they are not the same length.

I am okay with the newer replacement but there is a lot of modifying needed.

This is the top of the metal frame where the bow is attached. The short vertical lip on the right runs the length of the side rails. You can see that there is no room for the wood to be between the bracket and the rail. The large hole is for a bolt that is shown below.

This is the wood bow showing where the frame bracket is attached to the bow. You can see there is no way that fits into that space with the extra wood lip. The line is where I think I need to remove the wood.

I mentioned the large bolt that goes in that hole. I am not sure that's originally supposed to be there. Right or wrong?

The mechanism is pretty nicely done, with the nut captured in the plug.

_________________
87 Doka 2WD Ej22,
56 Convertible

[finster]

I'm surprised nobody has replied, so I will and then maybe the experts will jump in...
basically, yes these wooden parts do need trimming and shaping to fit the car. here is a photo of a 60 cabrio showing how the header bow fits the end of the rail. if you click on the photo and zoom in you can just see the curved edge of the mounting plate too.

_________________
"we're here on Earth to fart around" kurt vonnegut

nothing lasts, nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect...

[2Dokas]

Thanks for the picture and comment,

It look like the end of the bow is trimmed to fit into the rails or maybe its just the picture?

Two holes on each side connecting to the frame, also interesting though the 56 only has one large hole in the frame for the bolt and capture nut. This hole is going to be a challenge since there is no room to drill a pilot hole for the angle.

thanks again,
_________________
87 Doka 2WD Ej22,
56 Convertible