What fastener?

[Jefscoupe]

1932 3 window coupe.
There are 4 seam covers (as of yet to find out the proper name) that run along the front edge of the door openings.
Just little 1/2 x 1/2 angles shaped to fit over the seam where the A pillar is welded to the body.
My questions are:
What fasteners were used to attach these to the body?
I can't find any mention of them (the parts OR the fasteners) in my 1932 Ford Books by David Rehor.
The original holes in the body appear to be for a #8 sheet metal screw. Maybe a truss head?
A friend sent me some pics of his original unrestored 3 window but there seems to be some screws replaced and I can't tell what are the originals. Some almost look like clutch heads.
Are they some Ford only special "Better Idea" fasteners?
Also, the proper name for these "covers" would be a plus.
It's hard to research something when you don't know what to call it.
Thanks.

[jplutz]

Jeff, I don't have an early Ford, but the best advice I can give you is to take pictures of the problem. When these experts SEE an example of your problem, they are quick to give great advice. JPL

[DavidG]

As jplutz notes, a photo will be worth many words, especially when you are not sure of the terminology.

[BoxCar Tom]

I think he is referring to the A pillar door jamb covers. I took a picture where the upper and lower pieces meet near the dove tail.

[Jefscoupe]

Been a while since I posted on forums. Hope you all can see this.
The blue piece is one original that I had. I guess that's the only one I had.
Anyway, I made some more and would like to know how they were attached.
The unfinished one in this pic is just roughed in. They are finished now.

[Jefscoupe]

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That's it. I knew a 3 window owner would know what I was talking about.
Those just look like panhead screws. Thanks Tom.

[BoxCar Tom]

Here's another picture of a restored 3w door jamb. Looks like round head screws were used. This is where David should jump in.

[Jefscoupe]

Thank you very much.
Those pics give me a lot to chew on.
I ordered some pan head screws. Should be here by mid week.
The car I’m working on is my avatar pic.
That was taken about 1955 at a car show in Memphis ,TN.
I’ve gotten so much done since I retired 3 years ago.
I’ve had the car since 1979. Yep 45 years come April.
I could have used new Phillips or hex socket stainless (and I have in some places)
but I wanted it to look as much “original” as I can.
Yeah it’s a hot rod but I mean the original as it appeared back in the early 50s.
Slotted screws and all. I even built a Flathead like the one in the pic. But…it now has some modern upgrades.
I was 20 when I bought it. I hope to be driving this summer. Or fall…ish…maybe…

[DavidG]

Tom,


In the photos of my coupe and several near mint originals those screws appear to have binding heads, which Ford seemed to have favored at that time. The dash attachment screws on '32s-'34s except '32 deluxe coupes are notable examples. Pan headed screws would also likely work given the location.

[BoxCar Tom]

Hi David,

I looked up Binding Head (sheet metal) Screws in the Bible, Pg A-11-26 and -27. The Binding Head screws on these pages have wood screw threads. They look like what we commonly refer to as Pan Head screws today. The Binding Head screws on page A-11-30 have machine threads. You are absolutely correct about using Pan headed screws in this location. In my case, any other screw head will interfere with door closure.

Related question, Other than Wind Lace, was there any door seal or weather seal along the 3W coupe A pillar location? Thanks

[Jefscoupe]

I also saw the listing for the binding head screws but it doesn’t list where they are used.
I’m sure more than one place.
Once I saw the pic of the screws in question, I knew what they were.
Finding a binding head sheet metal screw with a straight slot has been an issue and my reasoning for using pan head screws.
I can secure them with a little adhesive if needed.
There is no wood (that I know of) in the A pillars.
Just that header that runs over the door.
It stops at the A pillar.
Thanks for all the info.

[DavidG]

Tom,


Only wind lacing on the A pillar