16-12-2023, 09:46 PM
David / Belinni,
Around August / September 1928 the Top Hat saloon, which was first introduced in 1926 underwent a radical revamp bringing it closer to the RK / RF saloons which of course were the subsequent models
Major changes were:
1. Flat steering wheel.
2. Pidgeon holes either side of the dash.
3. Ni plated, taller radiator cowl
4. Scuttle ventilator
5. fabric covering extended to the rear of the roof
6. Door surround moulding removed
7. Change to rear bottom door radius.
8. " Clasp style " join in the body to the rear of the door above the rear wheel arch.
9. Forward mounted headlights
10. Some evidence that very early cars retained the magneto engine but largely the engines were the first of the coil type.
Production of this model only continued for a few months before production ceased with the RK / RF models taking over. In fact they appeared to continue being produced alongside the new RK / RFs.
Why this model was ever introduced is a mystery. It was not a success as with the announcement of the RKs etc the public preferred the wider doors and other features. The Works were left with unsold stock. How to get rid?...ship them out to the Colonies, ie New Zealand, which is why there are more survivors out there than here in the UK !!
Photo of my oily rag
car to illustrate, with an earlier Top Hat to the rear.
Around August / September 1928 the Top Hat saloon, which was first introduced in 1926 underwent a radical revamp bringing it closer to the RK / RF saloons which of course were the subsequent models
Major changes were:
1. Flat steering wheel.
2. Pidgeon holes either side of the dash.
3. Ni plated, taller radiator cowl
4. Scuttle ventilator
5. fabric covering extended to the rear of the roof
6. Door surround moulding removed
7. Change to rear bottom door radius.
8. " Clasp style " join in the body to the rear of the door above the rear wheel arch.
9. Forward mounted headlights
10. Some evidence that very early cars retained the magneto engine but largely the engines were the first of the coil type.
Production of this model only continued for a few months before production ceased with the RK / RF models taking over. In fact they appeared to continue being produced alongside the new RK / RFs.
Why this model was ever introduced is a mystery. It was not a success as with the announcement of the RKs etc the public preferred the wider doors and other features. The Works were left with unsold stock. How to get rid?...ship them out to the Colonies, ie New Zealand, which is why there are more survivors out there than here in the UK !!
Photo of my oily rag