Convertible top boot measurements

[aldagenais]

I'm currently reupholstering my 77 Spider and would like to also make a boot for the top. Is there anyone in the Ottawa area that has one that wouldn't mind me taking some measurements and pictures of the boot so I can make my own?
Thanks

[4uall]

Hey Alain, I could probably lend you mine etc.

[Jimb]

Otherwise I've got one in Victoria.
Jim

[aldagenais]

Hey Alain, I could probably lend you mine etc.

That would be great. We can set up a date and time.

[Frog2Spider]

Is there a trick to getting the back of the boot to lay flat and even along the rear deck?
I have the plastic end pieces, and the metal hoops, that attach the boot to the hooks on this deck but the boot doesn't lie flat.
Is there another piece that goes inside the envelope of the boot, or what?
It's the original boot and in real good shape.

Thanks,
Dave.

[DieselSpider]

The top has to be folded completely and strapped down tight first. If it is has material bunched up keeping it a tad high the boot won't lay flat. If it has shrunk the straps the hook into the side panels and hold the flap that covers the rear seat back down may pull the boot cover forward creating a gap between the boot cover and the rear deck.

[baltobernie]

I purchased a boot cover for my '73 from IAP. It required several modifications by a local saddlery, and I would have been better off having one made.

Sail battens were sewn into the sides to keep them from flapping.



The area around the "knee" of the top frame was reinforced to prevent tearing.



An eyelet and bungee were installed to keep the drape from flapping.



Lastly, to address your problem, a row of snaps along the rear edge.





Later-model Spiders have better boot covers. Good luck with your project.