I'm looking for a thread from awhile ago about a step by step process for replacing a conv. top. Anyone remember which one it was, I can't find it anywhere. Thanks, Fred Z.

 

Your best bet is to get the video. Someone here might be able to lend you their copy of the video. It has step by step and you can see it in progress also.

 

Going from memory here, so I might miss a few steps or get a few out of order...

1. Remove old weatherstrip, fabric, tension straps, and adhesive/staples.
2. Inspect frame for damage and repair as necessary.
3. Inspect tack strips and replace as necessary.
4. Align frame/windows as necessary.
5. Measure horizontal distance from edge of rear bow to edge of upright (what upright weatherstrip mounts on). Note results of both sides.
6. Install new pads
7. Remove rear bow and latch header bow
8. Install new tension straps on rear bow.
9. Install new fabric/lock-cord/weatherstrip into rear bow making sure the fabric hangs over the bow by the amounts measured in step 5. (expect to use lots heat)
10. Remount rear bow/fabric to frame hinges
11. Staple top edge of tension straps
12. Install window cables in sleeves sewn into fabric. Rivet/bolt into place.
13. Staple/tack back fabric (section with rear window) to #3 bow. Trim excess
14. Staple/tack top fabric to #3 bow. Trim excess.
15. Secure flaps at front of side window with adhesive and weatherstrip. Trim excess
16. Draw top tight with one hand and mark front edge of header bow with the other (pencil works fine)
17. Unlatch frame, fold back to expose tack strip and staple/tack fabric to header bow while lining up mark made in previous step. Trim excess
18. Install front windlace.
19. Secure flaps to window upright with contact adhesive and weatherstrip.
20. Intall wire-on
21. Install remainder of weatherstrip.
22. Using heat to stretch and steam to shrink, get all the wrinkles out.
23. Clean

 

Get the video.

Rowley Corvette has a good writeup online, but they don't remove the rear bow and fit the top to it before attaching to the top frame. Removing the rear bow makes it so much easier. Learned that from the video.

Orville

 

I second that

Just finish my top last weekend and used Al Knoch's video. The video guides you through the steps and as long as you take your time it will turn out great.
carl