Joined: Aug 2017 Posts: 1,201 Threads: 71
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Having got to the bottom of my RP sliding roof troubles (the one I commissioned to be made 25 years ago turned out to be 3/4" short - and that made all the difference) I have now asked Martin Prior to provide one of the correct dimensions (it wasn't him 25 years ago, I hasten to add!). He and I have just had a conversation about the best material to use on the runners to provide easy, trouble free operation. We both agreed that the original seemed to be a form of dense 'felt' but we have both, independently, failed to find the ideal material over the years. Has anyone found the perfect material for use on the runners and, as a follow up question, the best method of affixing the chosen material to the metal runners...
As ever, thanks in advance for any suggestions...
Joined: Aug 2018 Posts: 23 Threads: 3
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Hi Hugh
I CAN SUPPLY CORRECT FELT TEL 01202 625242
Regards
Willie
Joined: Aug 2017 Posts: 1,201 Threads: 71
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It goes on the top and bottom surface of the 4 runners on the sliding panel. Originally they were held on by small rivets, brass possibly. I will try and replicate that with some small ali rivets, flat topped, not domed...
But that might be a little more 'experimental'...
Joined: Aug 2017 Posts: 620 Threads: 7
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Location: queensland
With the installation of NEW felts I would caution against the use of ANY lubricant. A silicon spray as used on zippers if you must.
The rails also should not be goopy (technical term).
Joined: Mar 2018 Posts: 697 Threads: 33
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Location: Lot region FRANCE
Couldn't have been an Austin, no lights on in the garage !
Joined: Aug 2017 Posts: 1,201 Threads: 71
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Russell - why do you say no lubricant? I get the lack of goopiness (technical term) on the rails, but I could see some lubricant on the felts being beneficial?
Joined: May 2018 Posts: 331 Threads: 51
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Location: East Sussex Coast
The felts that I removed from mine had been soaked in some form of lube for over 80 years. I asked the felt manufacturer and he cautioned against grease but stated that Vaseline, other similar such products are available, would be fine to use on British manufactured felt.