Birdcage Swap
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 6,248
Likes: 4
From: Lancaster PA
Birdcage Swap
I have a 71 T-top that the windshield /pillar area is totally rusted out. I have a 79 t-top parts car with a birdcage in very good condition. Can I swap out a 71 pillar/ t-top bar with a 79 ?
Pro
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 533
Likes: 18
From: Boca Raton Florida
If you are changing only the pillars and t-top bar they are the same. I believe the lower frame piece changed in '73.
Last edited by Bob Heine; Nov 16, 2010 at 10:44 AM. Reason: Clar
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 6,248
Likes: 4
From: Lancaster PA
Pro
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 533
Likes: 18
From: Boca Raton Florida
If you leave the '71 lower frame in place, you're good to go.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 6,248
Likes: 4
From: Lancaster PA
The t-tops fit. I needed a new windshield for my '72 and a friend gave me one from a '77 and the base of the later windshield did not touch the lower frame -- it was about an inch gap. I think it has to do with the wiper door re-design in '73.
If you leave the '71 lower frame in place, you're good to go.
If you leave the '71 lower frame in place, you're good to go.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 3,189
Likes: 111
From: Tolland CT
I just had the header portion of my windshield frame replaced. Original rusted from the inside out. The windshield mounting surface looked OK until they hit it with a body hammer, metal was thin.
Anyway, the shop which fixed it for me had a nice clean donor piece. They drilled the spot welds out where the top corners meet the pillar and where the T-Bar attaches. Worked out quite well. Maybe you could do the same?
You may want to test the pillars while the glass is out. Check for thin metal. Once you're done, treat with your favorite rust inhibitor, POR-15 or what ever..
Anyway, the shop which fixed it for me had a nice clean donor piece. They drilled the spot welds out where the top corners meet the pillar and where the T-Bar attaches. Worked out quite well. Maybe you could do the same?
You may want to test the pillars while the glass is out. Check for thin metal. Once you're done, treat with your favorite rust inhibitor, POR-15 or what ever..
