Webasto Folding Sunroof

 

The Webasto folding vinyl sunroof was a popular fitment in 1970's English cars. Models such as the Triumph Dolomite Sprint, MGBGT, and many many more had these as an optional extra in many cases. The fabric roof material usually matched a vinyl covered roof to give a coach-built, and (questionably) higher quality look when compared with a simple painted metal roof. TVR offered this roof as an option at the time of order (I believe). The roof differs when compared to some other types of sunroof, in that it has a rotating lever which operates a tensioning latch when closed, and this cleverly stretches the vinyl to allow the rood to look smooth and remain watertight when closed. 

Issues with these are mainly due to age. Rust can spread within the front and rear formed metal plates (that the fabric bonds to). Also, the fabric itself can in some instances become ripped or worn away, allowing rain to enter, speeding up the corrosion process.

Rebuilding is fairly simple if you follow the steps for dismantling. I rebuilt mine and had to form my own steel front & rear plates, and also fitted a new vinyl covering using plasticised two pack paint to allow a the roof to be flexible and yet colour coded.

Pics to follow - being transferred from old website.