48 grab handles

[dan48]

 My 48 club coupe ( 6207) has interior grab handles mounted on the post that allow back seat passengers to pull themselves up and out. They are a rather stiff , rubber belt , that is upholstered. They appear to be original. The edging material is faded and frayed. I'd like to restore them as close to original as possible. Local shops are struggling with what edge material to use in order to get a clean non- fraying edge. Another issue is sewing through the rubber so close to the edge.  Anyone done this ? Have any insight ? Dan48

[49caddyman]

Dan:  Give the folks at LeBaron Bonney in Amesbury, Mass. a call.  When I restored my '49 club coupe back in '05 they did both of mine, & they're perfect.  I believe they have the correct material, or very close to it, to "recover" your originals.  Joe Cutler

[dan48]

 Thanks, I associated them with material and kits, rather than custom work. Wrong. Sample materials are on the way. The price is a bargain compared to floundering around with a local upholstery shops. In addition, they are nice, helpful people. Thanks again.