58 Hardtop question please
I have started the process and now stopped until I understand a few more details I hope you can help me with.
I removed one of the side piece of plexi and noticed that unless I remove the rivets from the hold down loop assembly I can not drop the section down to remove the Y piece of stainless thus continuing to free the rubber and then remove the rear window. I have read how much of a pain this process can be but want to do it myself if possible. Any information will be appreciated.
Thanks, John
jrepoff@aol.com





Here is a link to a some hardtop information that was originally published in the "Restorer" and the "ST-12":
http://www.carols62.com/59/hardtop.htm
The information on the side windows is on the page labeled "Body 1-43"
Charles
When I read the article again and I am trying to make sure I understand all steps but...it states that you will want to have the quarter windows installed as you work on the top to replace the rubber. This is confusing me a bit and I hope maybe you can help me better understand this please.
I am not sure how I can get the rear window/rubber out with out removing the quarter windows thus removing the side stainless trim on the rear window that you can't remove until you remove the rivets from the side hold down clips and seperate the bottom from the rain gutter to get the Y piece off.
Please help....
Thanks, John
jrepoff@aol.com





It has been about 3 years since I restored my hardtop so my memory of the sequence of events is not very detailed. I completely disassembled my hardtop and replaced all weather stripping and in the process I did remove the rivets in stainless steel connector piece that holds everything together.
Are you trying to replace the rear window weather stripping without removing the side glass? I'm not really sure if that can be done or not. When I did mine I do remember going through the same process that you are experiencing, that is, I need to remove this piece but in order to remove it I need to take this piece off, which means I need to remove this other piece, etc.
I have a hardtop to go on my '59 project that I will have to restore soon. Guess I'll have to write up a detailed description and take plenty of pictures.
Charles
Thanks for you're response. I have taken on side window off and was planning to remove the other until I read the information you provided me. I agree with you that I need to remove both sides before I can remove and replace the rubber around the rear and side plexiglass. The information stated that the quarters should remain in place to give the top strength while you work on the rear rubber and that confused me a bit.
Thanks very much again, John
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
Thanks in advance, John





Charles
Then how do you get the stainless trim pieces off with out removing the rain gutter ?
Even the Y trim was very tight getting off with the rain gutter in place I can not see how to get the 2 side trim pieces off ???
Thanks for any help, John
Thanks again. I spoke with Ted from the article you sent me and he explained what I needed to know. Everything you said was correct I just did not ask the right questions.
You have been very helpful and I hope one day I can return the favor.
Best regards, John





Even the Y trim was very tight getting off with the rain gutter in place I can not see how to get the 2 side trim pieces off ???
Thanks for any help, John
I assume the "Ted" you are referring to is Ted Kokolis of the Hardtop Shop. I bought all my weatherstripping, side glass, rivets and other misc. parts from him. He was very helpful.
Charles
Yes I am refering to Ted Kokolis of the Hardtop Shop. He is a great guy to talk to. What you had explained was correct in every way it was me not understanding. With just a few words with Ted I was on my way. I got the rear window out last night and am almost done polishing it and hope to have installed with the new rubber this weekend. Thanks again for all of you help, it was appreciated very much.
Best regards, John









???? when it comes time to assemble mine i will probably be lost
