canvas for M3

[HenryVIII]

Does anyone have a source for the canvas tarp or cover that is used on a M3 halftrack. I am looking for repro or patterns. Any sources, prices, availability, ect. Also is there a source for the correct color canvas I think it id OD#3 but not sure.

Thanks. Henry

[spec4don]

I believe Mike Kellers wife was making repro covers for the M3. I would suggest if you can find a NOS French top they are lighter and work great for covering when transporting. They go on much quicker and easier then the US tops. Also a lot less expensive. I use the US top for shows and such.

Don G.

[HenryVIII]

Don, Thanks for the information. I will try to get in touch with the Kellers and see if they still make them, and how much they cost. I am curious why the French covers go on easier. Is it because they are thinner and easier to handle, or are they cut different than the US ones.

If I had repros made would they be more like the French ones or the US ones?

My other option was to try and make one. I found a tarp at Menards that is OD canvas 12x16 for $100. Not the perfect color but close enough. Mildew resistant, treated ect. Should be enough material to make one cover, if I can find a pattern. I'm kind of a cheapskate plus it would be a good chance to try out my old singer.

Henry   

[spec4don]

yes the French top is cut a little different and the straps are all on the out side. It is also much lighter. What it doesn't have is the zippers for the 50 on the pedestal mount.

Don G.

[HenryVIII]

Don, Thanks for the information. I don't have a pedestal anyway so the zipper is not important to me. I am going to look around to see what is out there.

Henry

[Thundercat97]

I got one of the M3 tops a fews years back from them.  I love it, well done and spot.   Not sure they are still making them but I was lucky and stepped up vs saying, let me keeping looking.

[Tapper02]

Here in the States you can try Beachwood Canvas:
https://www.beachwoodcanvas.com

There is a guy in the UK making them as well:
http://g503.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=24&t=195828&p=1269912&hilit=Halftrack+canvas#p1269912

I personally haven't gotten to the point in the restoration where I need one.

-Tom

[Outsider]

I have the first one from Mike's wife. It has done very well, and continues to look like new. I am very happy with it!

Steve

[steve1973]

I asked Mike a year or so ago about tops and is no longer making them. Beachwood is very expensive and last I heard they require your track on site to verify fit or they would not make the top. The place is Europe is your best bet and the best price I think. SOS MV has tops but not sure for which model. There is a top on eBay currently for an M3 I think. New Life Canvas I think can make one but will need a pattern to go by.

Steve A.