Deuce Roadster Progress

Along with getting the Studebaker to be a running, driving car (no small feat...) I had a lot of work to do on the Tsukagawa Deuce. We decided to paint the gas tank black, install a top and make numerous other small improvements. The top came from a company called Rod Tops Unlimited and I have to say the quality and fit of the top were very good. This was a little more expensive than some of the other tops I have seen but man, what a difference. Having the top on the car totally transforms he way the car drives down the road, it's much more civilized now.

At any rate, here's some photos. Enjoy!

With the top installed, the car looks complete. It is also much more comfortable to drive. I have to admit, I was not a big fan of the color at first but it sure looks good in real life.

Here you can see the glass rear window, the polished cast window frame and the proper stitching like an original top. Also note that we painted the gas tank black to match the body better. Next I will mount the license plate in it's proper location and also install a chrome plated rear spreader bar.

Just look at the quality in this photo. The top frame is made from flat stock like an original and all the fasteners are stainless. even the adjustment bar in the rear is stainless and the top already has snaps installed along the bottom edge. These are for attachment to a wooden strip along the rear body opening, just like original. Nice!

Another detail shot of the mounting, very high quality. I'm impressed! You can also see the zipper for side curtains, which we will install later.

I added a pair of jewel lights on the dash to indicate when the fan is on, and also when the headlights are on.

I also added this hood prop, this will make it easier to hold the hood sides up when working on the motor.