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I'm about to have a new hood fitted, but couldn't understand why a MOHAIR from some suppliers was a fair bit cheaper than that of many others. Well the simple reason is that in most cases the lesser price denotes a less expensive quality of "MOHAIR" material, although the majority of "HOOD SUPPLIERS" are somewhat reluctant to divulge the name or type or quality of MOHAIR they are quoting on. It seems that there are 3 main qualities of "MOHAIR" available at present. These being,the basic,lower cost and quality,"STAYFAST" followed by the better and more expensive "TWILLFAST" and then topped by the market leader as used on "Mercs, BMWs Porches".."SONNENLAND" These 3 fabrics originated from a German Company and are, or were marketed by GEBRUDER BROTHERS HAPPICH GmbH. although the USA are, or were supplying good quality copies of these 3 fabrics under the same or similar names. All the above materials appear to be produced with three ply construction, the center layer being of a "Rubber or Elastomer" type material. "STAYFAST" The least expensive and lowest quality of the above 3 fabrics,it's of 3ply construction with a tightly woven pre dyed yarn to insure uniform colour throughout, and a top layer of "Acrilic Faced Material",and has good wrinkle & U.V resistant qualities, along with Weatherability, Durability and low temp flexability...... It also well out performs the "Vinyl" hood material from which most of the original ESCORT HOODS were produced... A fair majority of OE hoods were produced in "STAYFAST MOHAIR" for the "BETTER FAMILY" convertable,other than Mercs BMWs etc.which used "SONNENLAND" "TWILLFAST" Also known by its USA name of "Sonnendeck" This is by far the better quality "MOHAIR" material than "STAYFAST" In My Opinion and is of a" Heavier Weight. The only problem being a somewhat lesser colour range than "STAYFAST". This fabric is the closest in looks to the top quality "SONNENLAND" and has the True Double Texture and "DUBBY type Criss Cross Weave, we associate with "Mercs & BMWs, it apparently wears better and is less likely to sag or loose its shape over the years. This material is used by "BAS International" who, I am advised manufacture hoods for a number of suppliers inc' Car Hoods Northern. It is also used regularly by "CAR HOODS DIRECT" but their fitting charge seems rather high to me!! "SONNENLAND" Known by the trade and car enthusiasts throughout the world as "THE ORIGINAL GERMAN CABRIOLET MATERIAL" and fitted as OEM on the top Merc, BMW, PORSCHE, etc apparently "THE BEST YOU CAN BUY, and reported to be in exellent condition on many well looked after vehicles even after 20yrs or so probably due to its exceptional "Abrasion Resistance etc.. Well I'm off to order a "TWILLFIT" Black/Black" hood for my 1992/3reg XR3i 130ps Cabby. It will replace the original VINYL one which is still reasonably water and wind proof with exception of a split or two by the rear window and a small split to the rear of the rear o/s drivers window. The cost of supply and fit through BAS International London (East Croydon) will be £433.00 inc two new roof cables this is against a supply & fit price of £350.oo for a "STAYFAST" hood from "The Car Hood Warehouse" Chessington" Surrey. I'll report back at a later date on my experience with the fitting and satisfaction of the hood. Trust that the above may be of some use to cabby owners....."Rustler... "The Oldest Cabbier"... Peter Holmwood ... S/W France.
