Creating confusion is one of my specialties. The straps are on top of the bows and under the top. They are not a component of the top but I assume they are there to protect the the under side of the top from rubbing the side rails and cables. They are secured to the front a back bows by sliding into grooves and are riveted to the center bows to keep them in place. I have removed them from the car for a pattern to make the new ones or I would take a photo with them in place. Comprende?