Convertible Soft Top Hood

To the untrained eye, you may be mistaken in thinking that the TR2 all the way to the TR3B models shared the same Soft Top Convertible Hood. The reason being that the overall size and general appearance remained the same throughout this nine-year production run. However, there were actually three different variants spanning these models.

According to our records, approximately half of the TR2 models (around 4400) were fitted with a singular window in the rear – which was relatively small when compared to the later variants. This was then switched in favour of a larger centre window – and this change was accompanied by the addition of two side “quarter panel” windows – presumably to aide with clearer vision when looking rearward! This same Three-Window design was used throughout the TR3 production run, and carried on into the TR3″A” era briefly before another subtle update was made to the Hood at around chassis number TS28,825. Whilst all earlier cars had been fitted with a Hood that had seams running the length of the Hood down the left and right outer edges – early on in the building of the TR3As – this was updated to remove these seams, instead creating the convertible top whose main area was essentially one large piece of material, with no joining seams. This version was carried on until the end of the TR3A/TR3B production run – keeping the three-window design from its predecessors. It is worth noting that the fixings used to attach this cover to the car also changed during the 9 years they were leaving the factory line, so it is always best to double-check which style you have on your car at the point of ordering.

The majority of Triumph TRs left the factory with PVC Hooding – this is effectively a pvc vinyl plastic material with a waterproof membrane, and featuring a grain in the surface of the material to imitate vinyl/leather. The actual material used was Everflex (known as “British Everflex”) – which was an ICI trade name for PVC Hooding (think “sticky tape” and “sellotape”!). Some special-order models may have left with Deluxe Mohair Canvas. The clear plastic window(s) at the back was made in a Vybak plastic.

Here at John Skinners, we have patterns and templates for all three variants of this Soft Top Hood, all designed using the factory designs. These have all been used consistently for many years – to good effect with our kits winning many awards the world over. However, please be under no illusions – the Weather Equipment elements (Soft Top Hood and Tonneau Covers) are tricky to fit, even for an experienced trimmer. We strongly urge you and your professional trimmer to contact us for directions on the best methods for fitting these items, as sometimes some steps are irreversible. These parts are not meant to be easy to fit – that’s why when they are done correctly, the material is as tightly pulled and tort as a drum. Don’t leave this to chance – use one of our kits, and ensure you fully understand the process of fitting before you start.

You may wish to consider our Tonneau Cover and Hood Frame Envelope Cover to complete the external “Weather Equipment” set.

DETAILS

• Available in automotive-grade PVC Hooding (Everflex) or Deluxe Mohair Canvas.
• Plastic Vybak window, High-Frequency welded in place as original for most models. We can also stitch if you prefer, as per the very early cars (surcharge may apply).
• Edged with the traditional “e” cross-section binding edge finish – where the material edge trim material tucks round on itself meaning no raw material backing is exposed.
• Includes a pre-sewn draught excluder flap on the front edge to assist with wind reduction in this area.
• All “Female” fixings are included. These are supplied loose, not pre-inserted – see FAQs for more information.

Why JSM?

• Made in England, only 50 miles away from the original production line.
• We source only the highest quality raw materials to manufacture our products – demonstrated by using on the premium versions of both the PVC and Mohair Hooding ranges. In both of these materials, there are cheaper alternatives available which many other suppliers opt to use. Please see the FAQs for more information on this.
• John Skinners offer the widest range of colour options on the market – including all the correct original colour combinations, as well as many more custom shades.
• Worldwide material and colour samples service is available upon request, to ensure you get the look and finish your car deserves.
• Our kits are manufactured using the same methods and templates that we have used to great success for 40+ years. Rest assured, we know they fit!
• JSM has contributed to various notable Triumph restorations including TS01, and the much-publicised Triumph TR2 “Jabbeke“ MVC575 restoration project.
• Access to help and advice when it comes time to fit the weather equipment items – we have been making and fitting these same parts for a long time – we know all the tricks, and we are more than happy to assist you or your trimmer should you get stuck.