Who Makes This Top Because It Appears To Be Far Superior Than All Others!

[GoDadGo]

Hey Gang,

Does anybody know who makes this top shown in the attached YOUTUBE video?

https://youtu.be/lNWpmfCqr4s

Talk about a great design and extremely fast to install, remove and re-install.

Is it Black Needle from Australia?

Steve

[Railroad]

I do not think it will fit on Chevy engine cars. Just joking! That would be the one to consider. I will be watching to get informed on this.

[2bking]

I have the FFR premium top and it has a better attachment than the one shown in the video. The part across the windshield is better anchored and the side curtains are better where attached to the windshield. The car in the video is RHD so the top made be a non US manufacturer.

[GoDadGo]

I have the FFR premium top and it has a better attachment than the one shown in the video. The part across the windshield is better anchored and the side curtains are better where attached to the windshield. The car in the video is RHD so the top made be a non US manufacturer.

While I agree that the FFR Premium Top is really top notch quality; however, I'm less than impressed with the time it takes to remove and replace.

Maybe it's the Chevy in me, but I'd like a less complicated rag top with zip out windows since the weather changes so much down here near The Big Easy. (N.O.L.A.)

[MPTech]

Cool top, but that guy really made me nervous flipping that frame around the painted roadster.

[edwardb]

Cool top, but that guy really made me nervous flipping that frame around the painted roadster.

Funny. I thought exactly the same thing. :p

I've seen the FF premium top at London several times. I agree it's vastly superior to that one. It breaks down into pretty small pieces and would fit into the trunk much better than the frame assembly shown here. Guys I've seen that have them and get used to using them are able to get them on and off pretty quickly. Not an issue IMO. Plus it doesn't need all those Lift-The-Dot fasteners on the body.

[GoDadGo]

I have a bad feeling that I'll be making "More Stone Soup" in the form of a "GoDadGo Designed Top" down the road, assuming of course that I get my car on the road, but I digress.

I'll keep you all posted if I come up with another "Dark Side Idea" down the road.

"In The Book Of Life, The Answers Aren't In The Back!" Charles Brown / Peanuts / Charles M. Schulz Creator

[supersize92003]

Does anyone know the Manufacturer ? I'm interested in the windshield brace.

[edwardb]

Does anyone know the Manufacturer ? I'm interested in the windshield brace.

That part is available from **********, and probably others. On this page with several variations depending on what parts you need: https://www.**********accessories.com/c-66-windshield.aspx. It actually doesn't do much to brace the windshield. It's main purpose is for the center rear view mirror.

[supersize92003]

I didn't phrase my question correctly. The brace in the video attaches from the top to the dash.
I am installing a hardtop and that brace looks like it would work nicely.

[GoDadGo]

That part is available from **********, and probably others. On this page with several variations depending on what parts you need: https://www.**********accessories.com/c-66-windshield.aspx. It actually doesn't do much to brace the windshield. It's main purpose is for the center rear view mirror.

EdwardB,

You Must Eat Drink & Sleep Cobras!
Also, Congratulations On Your Win @ Autorama!

Steve

[edwardb]

I didn't phrase my question correctly. The brace in the video attaches from the top to the dash.
I am installing a hardtop and that brace looks like it would work nicely.

You're right. Looked more closely at the video and see he was disconnecting from the top. Different than the mirror slider I linked to. I personally haven't see that before.


EdwardB,

You Must Eat Drink & Sleep Cobras!
Also, Congratulations On Your Win @ Autorama!

Steve

Thanks! Well, not exactly. I really do have lots of other things going on. But being retired does have its perks. ;)

[Jester]

GoDad, there are many features re the FFR premium top that in my opinion make it the best ragtop option available for FFR roadsters - including the state of the art design and high quality frame with window header mount system including frame turnbuckle tensioners that keep the top tight and eliminates flapping at highway speed (only 2 holes required to mount) - although it is a little pricey.

[GoDadGo]

Bump!

[wallace18]

The FFR premium top is the best IMO. Once you get used to it the time to install and remove is only 10 minutes. I like how well it seals and with my A/C makes hot sunny days here in FL. so much better.

[GoDadGo]

The FFR premium top is the best IMO. Once you get used to it the time to install and remove is only 10 minutes. I like how well it seals and with my A/C makes hot sunny days here in FL. so much better.

I know Factory Five makes a nice top, but I'm trying to find out who makes the one in the video.

Any Assistance Will Be Greatly Appreciated Finding Who Makes This Top!

Thanks-N-Advance!

[Ducky2009]

Hey Gang,

Does anybody know who makes this top shown in the attached YOUTUBE video?

https://youtu.be/lNWpmfCqr4s

Talk about a great design and extremely fast to install, remove and re-install.

Is it Black Needle from Australia?

Steve

Steve,
It's a backdraft car and the top is made by a company in South Africa www.softtop.co.za
I saw this once before. David Corlett posted this video and answered that question way down in the comments.

[Dave Howard]

I have the premium top also. It's absolutely top quality. Install time as stated is about 10 minutes, although at London this year it took about 2 hours and 5 scotch due to all the interest and questions fom fellow Cobra guys at the Holiday Inn. Although more expensive, it's worth every cent.
Haha. I love it. A mini car show at the car show.

[Avalanche325]

www.softtop.co.za

They are in South Africa. It is in the replies to the comments below the video. He mentions that it won't fit an FFR due to the high rollbars. However the web site says it will fit anything the looks like a Cobra.

Things I notice and wonder. Is it watertight?
It has snaps on the body. Originals had Lift-the-dots (much nicer than snaps), FFR top has none.
How would it be at speed? FFR top is very stable. I have had mine over 100mph and on the autocross course.
It looks like the canvas sits right on the paint, which would be like sandpaper. The FFR one does still take it's toll on the paint on the back deck to be truthful, even though it mostly keeps the canvas away.

[DaleG]

Very similar to FFR's original soft top; I had one on #5004.

[GoDadGo]

Thanks Gentlemen,

Since I Love Traveling The Road Less Traveled The Reference Material Alone Is A Huge Help!
At this point, the top is just becoming a back of mind item.

Steve

[Fugi]

So glad to read all the positive comments about the FFR top. Our roadster will be completed on the 14th and we just added the softtop (very expensive), but I'm also certain that it will make the hot humid days in Missouri so much more enjoyable with the A.C.. We are really starting to get excited now. Has anyone ordered the top in a color other than black?

[Dave Howard]

So glad to read all the positive comments about the FFR top. Our roadster will be completed on the 14th and we just added the softtop (very expensive), but I'm also certain that it will make the hot humid days in Missouri so much more enjoyable with the A.C.. We are really starting to get excited now. Has anyone ordered the top in a color other than black?

Just an additional comment and something to consider since you are putting in an order....for an additional fee, you can have the rear window as a zip out, and have additional windows sewn into the rear corners to imove your visibility. I wish I had done that.

[Papa]

Just an additional comment and something to consider since you are putting in an order....for an additional fee, you can have the rear window as a zip out, and have additional windows sewn into the rear corners to imove your visibility. I wish I had done that.

Dave,

This is good to know as my wife just gave me the approval to order a soft top from FFR. Our Colorado weather is so unpredictable, and having a top in the trunk will make venturing out on a long drive to the mountains that much more enjoyable.

Dave

[Fugi]

That is good to know. I will ask about that change once FFR puts me in touch with the top Mtg. regarding color options.

[WIS89]

Dave,

This is good to know as my wife just gave me the approval to order a soft top from FFR. Our Colorado weather is so unpredictable, and having a top in the trunk will make venturing out on a long drive to the mountains that much more enjoyable.

Dave

Dave-

Your wife sounds like a keeper! What did you lose in trade? HA

Everything I have heard about that top has been excellent. While expensive, I think it is one of those situations where you get what you pay for. Please post some pics when you get it all installed.

I am going to try to convince my wife that the soft top is a moral imperative, wish me luck!

Regards,

Steve

[cgundermann]

Cool top, but that guy really made me nervous flipping that frame around the painted roadster.

I know right...

[Dave Howard]

Dave,

This is good to know as my wife just gave me the approval to order a soft top from FFR. Our Colorado weather is so unpredictable, and having a top in the trunk will make venturing out on a long drive to the mountains that much more enjoyable.

Dave
I lived in the foothills of the Rockies in Alberta when I bought the top for the same reason as you. Unless it going in a trailer, the top is a must in my books.

[John4337]

You won’t regret the FFR/Rod Top, I’ve used mine a lot for the unexpected liquid sunshine in South Florida. It’s a real quality item that works well. We’ve also found that long highway runs are more pleasant with it on. The zip out windows and quarter windows are good things to consider, they weren’t on the menu when I got mine, wish they had been. Someone asked for a photo, here’s my green mk4 all buttoned up

74863

Good luck

John

[Fugi]

Yes she is a keeper. Was out with me today installing a vacuum pump on our '69 Chevelle. The 502 does not make enough vacuum to assist the power brakes. So it's starts to rain, while I'm getting a little testy, she says a little water won't kill us, it will be an adventure! She is under the car, turning the nuts while I'm holding the bolts. God I do love her.

John, thanks for the picture. We are also going with green, but will have cream stripes. It is great to see how the black top looks. Will send a picture of our engine painted same colors as the car as soon as I figure out how.

[boat737]

Sorry to migrate a bit off topic, but regarding the FFR/Rod Soft Top (or hard top, or any top), can the sun visors stay in place while using the soft top? In the videos, the wind wings seem to be no problem, but no mention of the sun visors. And it looks as if there can be no top windshield mounted rear view mirror either. Any input on that? Thanks.

[GoDadGo]

Sorry to migrate a bit off topic, but regarding the FFR/Rod Soft Top (or hard top, or any top), can the sun visors stay in place while using the soft top? In the videos, the wind wings seem to be no problem, but no mention of the sun visors. And it looks as if there can be no top windshield mounted rear view mirror either. Any input on that? Thanks.

Boat,

I think it's a great question.
I didn't order Visors knowing that I'd be likely doing a custom Bikini (Jeep Style) top.

Steve

[John4337]

The visors can stay on, but they do need to be mounted with the tab at the bottom. Also, contrary to FFR’s video, the windwings stay outside the side curtains

I use a small suction cup mirror when the top is on to help visibility.

John

[Ducky2009]

Boat,

I think it's a great question.
I didn't order Visors knowing that I'd be likely doing a custom Bikini (Jeep Style) top.

Steve

Steve, I too was wondering about a custom Bikini top, in case I was caught in a downpour. Have you seen one on a FFR Roadster? Not sure how it would attach to the windshield. Guess I need to look into how the regular soft top attaches.
Wondering in Atlanta, LOL
David

[GoDadGo]

Steve, I too was wondering about a custom Bikini top, in case I was caught in a downpour. Have you seen one on a FFR Roadster? Not sure how it would attach to the windshield. Guess I need to look into how the regular soft top attaches.
Wondering in Atlanta, LOL
David

I have not seen one; however, my game plan is to use Bimini Top Quick Disconnect hardware to attach the bow to the body.

http://www.overtons.com/modperl/product/details.cgi?pdesc=Quick-Release-Bimini-Top-Hinge&i=33714

The windshield attachment pieces will either be done custom by yours truly or purchased from Jeff at Whitby Motorsports since he makes a top for our cars.

Steve

[Ducky2009]

I have not seen one; however, my game plan is to use Bimini Top Quick Disconnect hardware to attach the bow to the body.

http://www.overtons.com/modperl/product/details.cgi?pdesc=Quick-Release-Bimini-Top-Hinge&i=33714

The windshield attachment pieces will either be done custom by yours truly or purchased from Jeff at Whitby Motorsports since he makes a top for our cars.

Steve

Steve, Are you thinking you'll attach to the windshield supports, maybe on the outside, near the top? I'm interested it what you are planning, when you figure it all out!

David

[mcwho]

I am also interested in the top issue. So far I like the FFR premium top, also agree that the install/deinstall time required is a bit exessive. Maybe I wait for GoDadGo to get it all sorted out and follow his lead.

[Dave Howard]

I have not seen one; however, my game plan is to use Bimini Top Quick Disconnect hardware to attach the bow to the body.

http://www.overtons.com/modperl/product/details.cgi?pdesc=Quick-Release-Bimini-Top-Hinge&i=33714

The windshield attachment pieces will either be done custom by yours truly or purchased from Jeff at Whitby Motorsports since he makes a top for our cars.

Steve

The quick release hardware that comes with the FFR premium top is very slick and screws into inconspicuous mounts about the size of a quarter. You may want to contact Rod Tops and see who the supplier is. Much less noticeable then the pieces from Overtons

[Avalanche325]

I have a premium top with the quarter windows and zip down rear. With the quarter windows, if you are a driver that looks before a lane change, like you are supposed to, you don't need anything besides the standard mirrors.
The zip down is nice when using the top to stay out of the sun. I roll mine down with a full sized microfiber towel so the plastic won't be on the paint.

The first couple times you put the top on and take it off, it is a PITA. After you know what you are doing and it has stretched a little, it goes on or off in about 10 minutes.

From looking at the video, I would put a big bet on the title of "far superior" not holding up.

[GoDadGo]

The quick release hardware that comes with the FFR premium top is very slick and screws into inconspicuous mounts about the size of a quarter. You may want to contact Rod Tops and see who the supplier is. Much less noticeable then the pieces from Overtons

Hey Dave,

While I agree that Rod Tops makes a top-notch top, it is a bit bulky for my taste.
In addition, my roll bars have been lowered roughly 1.75-2.00" so a lower top would be my choice if the option were out there.
I don't know what path I will take at this point, but I do already have their information.
There is a company whose top I love, but it is made in Australia so it is not an option for obvious reasons, but their side and back windows zip out.

Steve

http://www.blackneedle.com/bnacobra.html

[Fugi]

I spoke to Chad at Rod Tops yesterday. Great customer service! He is sending samples of 3 optional materials we can use to select color and the cost to add the zip out rear window & side Windows was only $200.00. I did not realize the top comes with two bags (one for the top & one for the frame). Chad said it will take longer to figure out how to fit the top & frame in the bags than tale it off/put it on.

[Dave Howard]

I spoke to Chad at Rod Tops yesterday. Great customer service! He is sending samples of 3 optional materials we can use to select color and the cost to add the zip out rear window & side Windows was only $200.00. I did not realize the top comes with two bags (one for the top & one for the frame). Chad said it will take longer to figure out how to fit the top & frame in the bags than tale it off/put it on.

I use the frame bag for storing the frame in the garage. When I'm touring the frame pieces get tucked in the trunk where ever they fit best.

[Avalanche325]

The FFR top actually comes with three bags, top, frame and a side curtain bag. Then there are individual felt-ish bags for each piece of the frame.