Convertible top frame whatchamacallits

**user459** · #1 (**permalink**) 08-03-2007, 07:44 AM

I finally found the correct top frame for my 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia Spider Veloce, the one with the springs and assist handles. On the driver's side, near the front bow, it has a little doo-dad that I think is supposed to pull the flap that meets the top of the window down when the door closes. Great idea! Only thing is, I am missing the one for the passenger side.

Has anyone seen these hanging around? They are specific for driver's side and passenger side. The pictures below are the driver's side whatchamacallit.

Thanks,
Terry

By the way, I have one Pedal Box Cover left. If there is more interest, I will make more. Working on the rubber strips that go under the Veloce air box straps now as well as the rubber that goes between the airbox and the fender well.

Gordon Raymond · #2 (**permalink**) 08-05-2007, 11:39 AM

Hi Terry,
These Do Dads are a mixed blessing

. PERFECTLY adjusted (by bending) with a PERFECTLY fitting top, and PERFECTLY adjusted vent window tops, they may, or may not work for a while

. Usually, they help trap the top flap (pinching it) between the frame and vent window chrome

. Big problem is that the spring is not strong enough, and the top fit varies with temperature and humidity. AGAaaH!!!

I have lived with these Groinker Units for more tha 40 years now with my Veloce. I have found that those with much time fooling with these things use a forefinger to push them out with the window open, then close the window

. This workes fine for the driver, but passengers never can figure it out and the top gets damaged on the passenger side

. When a upholsterer replaces the top, they can never figure out how it was SUPPOSED to work, or fit INTO the top

. Many are left out intentionally

.
Check with "World Upholstery" to see if they have a spare. OR MAKE one

.
Don't worry if it does not work well. They never did!

Best,

Gordon Raymond

**velocedoc** · #3 (**permalink**) 08-05-2007, 05:34 PM

Wow! Where did you find these? I haven't seen a set of these soft top flap retainers in years! Good for you !!

You could use these as a model to make some reproduction parts? I would imagine the 750-101 group might be interested in these too. I need a set!

**AlfaDuc** · #4 (**permalink**) 08-09-2007, 07:53 PM

Terry,
One of my two '65 Veloces has a pair of the frammus spring plate thingies, and it actually does (sorta) help prevent closing the vent window frame against the top. Of course, it also seems to be a little tough on the chrome finish of the vent window, but concours correctness does rule

Note that the body (screwed into the top frame) should be chromed.
And if we're casting votes for trivial 101 items that need to be reproduced, I'm in for a set of CORRECT clamps that fasten the top to the upper windshield frame. The ones that have about ten uses in them before the single thread pitch for the pivot pin strips out. I don't like the current "repro" version, which does not resemble the original (but probably works better). So, who's leading the charge?
Jim

Gordon Raymond · #5 (**permalink**) 08-09-2007, 08:54 PM

Hi Jim,
I had to make a set for my OEM hardtop. Difficult, but within the abilities of an old Alfa restorer. I have not bothered to chrome them as yet, because they loosened a bit(

) as the top rubber took a set. Probably should have made the hook parts of spring steel with a slight bow(

) in them. Oh well, maybe this winter....

I agree these are a needed part.

Best,

Gordon Raymond

**velocedoc** · #6 (**permalink**) 08-09-2007, 10:06 PM

The soft top hold downs are also used on the factory hard top. Not that either one are readily available, other than repro's, just thought I would make a mention. The soft top flap retainers are definitely one of those missing items that seems to be long gone from most frames. Count me in for a set!

**alfaman** · #7 (**permalink**) 10-18-2007, 04:02 PM

looks lilke i have some of these that have been chromed...and other hardtop hardware as well..will try to post a pic tonite

**user459** · #8 (**permalink**) 10-18-2007, 04:14 PM

If you have the passenger's side one, I'll take first dibs on it! Also need the spring for the top hold down hook.

Terry

**alfaman** · #9 (**permalink**) 10-18-2007, 04:57 PM

here's some pics....don't want to start a bidding war, but have no idea what there're worth.....are these from this car?...all chromed, even the screws and springs....prob too good for a daily driver

i prob would like them to go as set