Raised Roof Question

[johnr]

I have an older c-dory with the old style flat and low roof. Has anyone ever tried to modify/retro-fit a c-dory roof to make it like the modern raised roof style?

[thataway]

I don't know of any one who had done this--if the cabin dimensions are similar to the modern Angler or Cruiser, then the factory should be able to sell you a modern cabin top. They are set on top, and then just tabbed in with glass tape. Not a really hard job to do, cut the old tape off with a Fein Saw. Set the new one in place--tack down the 4 corners with a quick setting adhesive, then tab in the new glass cloth.

To try and make the new top could be done, starting with door skins as the inside mold, and build glass on it I would use hot glue for first mock up with cardboard--either in a model or full size. (Probably both) Then use "stitch and glue, to make the first set up for the interior plywood. Drill holes about 1/4" back from the edge of the properly cut pieces of door skins, use solid copper wire thru the holes, to hold the wood in place. Use 3" wide glass tape and epoxy to "glue between the copper wires. After the epoxy has set up, remove the wires, lay a fillet in side and outside corners--and then start laying up several layers of 1708 glass and polyester resin. Finish off by fairing and gel coat. Doing this you would use your old top, put the "dome" on it. and fair inside and outside into the original. Quite a bit of work. No idea what C Dory would charge to make you one of the current types.

[rogerbum]

Quite awhile ago (when there were different owners), I enquired about getting a new cabin top for my Tomcat as I had hoped to extend the current lines aft a few feet to partially cover the cockpit. At the time, the factory was willing to sell me one and it wasn't wildly expensive. I don't recall the exact amount but I do remember it was less than what it would cost me to do the work myself. So as Bob suggests, take some measurements and contact the factory about getting just the roof from them. They might be willing to help.

[redbaronace]