Re: [mg-tabc] top stitching

[mrbadger]

After very many years of use (and stowage), I am contemplating the
replacement of my TC's top, sidescreens, and tonneau cover as this past
winter seems to have contributed substantially to the deterioration of
same. I believe that, in the recent past, the membership has
established, with some considerable certainty (and pain), the precise
size and location of an original TC rear window as supplied by the
works, however, it seems to me that there are other significant issues
to be addressed if one is concerned with maintaining strict originality.
The issue which concerns me here is the precise number of stitches per
inch (henceforth, S/P/I) which an original top would have had.
Certainly, the designing engineers at Abingdon would have specified the
S/P/I to be used when making the tops, etc. just as they specified bolt
diameters and lengths. There are actually dual issues to consider when
specifying the S/P/I count in a production situation, the first is
quality, obviously, a high, tight S/P/I count will yield a better, more
waterproof, and longer lasting product while, on the other hand, a
longer stitch and lower S/P/I count will speed production so that more
tops, etc. will be produced in a shorter time. Obviously as well, a
modern top or sidescreen panel which is sewn on a machine that may be
calibrated metrically will yield a different result compared to an
original machine calibrated in inches. I would be most grateful if one
of our more expert members, who may be fortunate enough to be in
possession of any original canvas, would make an accurate S/P/I count or
better yet, several counts to adjust for shrinkage, stretching, and
temperature change during the measuring and I feel certain that the
membership at large would benefit from this significant information. If
no member owns any original stitches then perhaps, one of our number who
is more scientifically inclined would know how to take an original works
photograph and enlarge it to the point where an accurate count could be
made. Does anyone have any ideas?

[MDandGI@webtv.net]

LOVE IT! Well said cvmga@ao.com
The whole thing is getting to a point of utter stupidity as I said
before who knows and who cares!

Regards Geoff