Spitfire Mk3 Headlining missing staybars

[Rockape]

 

Am about to start fixing my Spitfire hardtop. 

Removing the existing headlining reveals a layer of foam and what appears to be a simple “glue it all together” technique. There are some holes in inside edge of the top which I presume are for the original headlining stays to allow a headliner with loops to be attached? 
 

Apparently (according to Dave at Spitfire graveyard) the staybars are as rare as hens teeth…Which might explain why the old headlining has been glued into position. Interestingly Newtons don't make them because “ everyone has the originals with their hard tops”! They may be missing an opportunity ….

but - the stay bars can’t be that complicated can they? Sprung steel at the right length would do it … does any one know where I could get hold of some staybars?

 

 

Edited November 19, 2021 by Rockape
Better definition of what is required

[NonMember]

I haven't yet got round to refurbishing my hardtop but you are correct in thinking that the original headlining used rods across. If you look closely at a factory standard one, you can see the stitching where the lining material is sewn round the rods. I don't know whether the rods are available - I doubt they're included in any standard headlining kit as you'd normally expect to re-use the old ones.

[Adrian Cooper]

Hi Rockape,

Attached are some pictures, with measurements, which may help you if you decide to make your own bars. I have just finished restoring my hardtop and I made the headlining using some very high quality fabric supplied by our own Pete Lewis. He may still have some if you want to go completely diy.

Adrian

[NonMember]

2 hours ago, Adrian Cooper said:

I have just finished restoring my hardtop and I made the headlining using some very high quality fabric supplied by our own Pete Lewis.

Do you have measurements / description of process for that? I have a quantity of Pete's fabric waiting for when I pluck up the courage to do mine.

[Adrian Cooper]

 

43 minutes ago, NonMember said:

Do you have measurements / description of process for that?

Hi Rob,

Yes, I did take some pictures as I was working. It may be best if I write it up in a new thread?

Adrian

[NonMember]

I think a write-up in a new thread would be of interest to many people and of use to more than just me 🙂

[Rockape]

17 hours ago, Adrian Cooper said:

Hi Rockape,

Attached are some pictures, with measurements, which may help you if you decide to make your own bars. I have just finished restoring my hardtop and I made the headlining using some very high quality fabric supplied by our own Pete Lewis. He may still have some if you want to go completely diy.

Adrian

Fantastic information- this should help. I have ordered some tie bars from Chic Doig for a Herrald and propose to try to alter them to fit the Spit….

[1969Mk3Spitfire]

18 hours ago, NonMember said:

I think a write-up in a new thread would be of interest to many people and of use to more than just me 🙂

Writing-up the restoration of a hard top would be extremely helpful and most welcome 🙂

Thanks in advance?

[Badwolf]

If it takes as long as mine is taking it will resemble war and peace and cover a similar number of years.