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I recently purchased my first Vintage Speedster.  I want to add a luggage rack and I've been trying to decide which style to go with.  I've been leaning towards the VS product, however the Leitz style appeals to me as well.

Installation and minor modifications shouldn't present a problem for me so I am open to any thoughts and / or ideas that come my way.

I'm sure there are dozens of differing opinions, but I'd like to hear what members have dealt with so far.

 

Thanks...

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The VS one is by far the least expensive - $110 plus $15 shipping at VintageSpeedsterParts (not the VS builder where it is now $250).  It is chrome plated not stainless steel like the Leitz replica.

http://vintagespeedsterparts.com/ssrack.aspx

The VS won't fit the cast grill on a FF/CMC or early IM.  All mounting holes on replicas should be the same as they were designed to fit the metal mounting points in the original trunk lid.  Some replica racks will have an (ugly) extra set of holes to accommodate the twin grill engine cover.  Check out Dusty for quality leather straps.

SierraMadres Leitz Stainless Steel w/extra holes - sale at $364 ($428)

Last edited by WOLFGANG

I'd like to see someone reproduce the Reutter one in aluminum - it would not be difficult at all.  The rack I have is an Aamco one I got from TC (Team Evil) who used to post on SOC.  Both the VS and Aamco one are smaller racks about the size of the lid.  The Leitz (also spelled Lietz) and Reutter are larger.  I always thought the Leitz looked like that TV Flying Nun's hat!

Amco luggage rack 3

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  • Aamco luggage rack 3
Last edited by WOLFGANG

FWIW, the Reutter luggage racks were offered as an accessory for 356 A models (up to 1957), so technically they are more period correct for our replicas. The Lietz luggage racks were introduced in 1960.

I still had the Reutter rack off my '57 1600S Coupe and put it on my previous VS (click on pics to enlarge)...Jim's VS rear_2

...and later had it powder-coated to match the body color of my current VS.11141261_382241278641743_121418870226806300_oIMG_0839

Hope these pics are helpful for you @TheMayoMachine 

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  • Jim's VS rear_2
  • 11141261_382241278641743_121418870226806300_o
  • IMG_0839

Hello MAYO and  Kids  

Well I have been traveling a bit, first to Nashville and then Austin and I have had some "racks of ribs" and I have seen some "Racks on women" ( ****s = Racks,  for the Canadian audience)..  LOL

No,  the deck lids do not come pre-drilled with holes for racks...  I have a Lietz Rack that works nicely..  Yes it is not period correct but close enough since its only 3 years older than the Reutter rack ( which is period correct)..   Please be be aware that the rack should have posts that will fit into the single vent deck lid.

Racks are a nice feature and give you a spot to carry stuff for that road trip.  

Personally I would hold out for either a Leitz or Reutter rack..

Because when you play the game of life, its a full contact sport. Make no doubts about it, and its not whether you win or lose, its how good your speedster looked!! 

 

Tebs

 

OK...now I am REALLY undecided!  Those teak wood slats on the luggage rack have a great look.  The right finish would be a nice accent to my interior.

Thank you all for the input.  Seeing various rack styles on your Speedsters and reading about why you like one more than the other has been a great deal help!  

The time for me to decide has come.  I'll keep you posted; or maybe it'll be a surprise in June during the Cruise?  🤔

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