Cowl Hood Lace and Attachment of Same

[Johnny S]

Any tips on where to get the proper replacement cowl hood lace for my P18? Also, the factory attachment method appears to be 7/16" flatheaded, sharply pointed tacks with something akin to threads....albeit very very coarse. Can I find replacement tacks like this or is there another more preferred method to attach the new hood lace?

[David Maxwell]

I got the lacing from Andy Bernbaum. He seemed to have the same stuff everyone else had. At the time, I paid around $10 for it, but I see that people are bidding the stuff up on ebay now. I don't know why as it is reproduced and readily available. Any upholstery shop should be able to get it for you or you could order it yourself. I know Roberts carries it, and I'm sure Lebaron Bonney has it. Anyhow, you cut it to fit. Make sure you use an extremely sharp utility knife in order to avoid fraying the ends. It is made of cotton canvas material. To attach it, I used the smallest aluminum rivets you can buy. I can't remember the size, but they were small. Just ask for the smallest at your local hardware store. I prefer these rivets because they are easy to install, hold well and won't rust. Not a single soul, whether at a car show or on the street, has noticed that they are not "factory original". To install them:

1. Cut to length

2. Use a Dremel or small drill bit and make sure the existing holes are enlarged enough for the rivets.

3. Start with the holes closest to the center (around the cowl vent)

4. Use a nail or sharp punch and, while stretching the lacing, poke a starter hole through the lacing into the hole in the car's body.

5. Force the rivet through the hole and then attach the rivet gun.

6. Force the rivet into the opening, apply pressure and pull trigger

7. Continue outward until you reach each side of the car.

Stretching as you go will ensure that the lacing doesn't start to sag over time and catch the hood of the car.

Good luck!

[Lou Earle]

Thes guys have the lacing and a lot more

http://www.restorationspecialties.com/

[RobertKB]

As mentioned in the above response Restorations Specialties carries it. They also carry the same kind of little tacks (nails) that were originally used. I have replaced this hood lace on two vehicles. I just make sure the new nails go in the same holes as the old ones. Everything is tight and it looks great.

[Johnny S]

Thanks guys...that should do it. Much appreciated.

[Frank M.]

The special screws are called Drive Screws,and as said are availiable. They look so much better and original than Pop Rivets.

[Johnny S]

Thanks Frank....that will help. I wasn't able to find them without a name. I may be able to get most of the original ones out without too much damage if I'm careful but I'd better have a few extras around.