68/69 Corner Lock Convertible Top
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
68/69 Corner Lock Convertible Top
The corner lock pins in my 68 are shot. Not a good design to begin with and I do not think anybody makes a restoration or new part. My question. Can you use the 69 corner lock pin configuration which is a built in set? Will the 69 part work/fit into the 68 window frame? If so, do I just need to replace the interior piece and crome cover?
I would appreciate any help. Warmer weather is just around the corner and I would like to not have the top pop up when you hit a bump or two.
Thank you
I would appreciate any help. Warmer weather is just around the corner and I would like to not have the top pop up when you hit a bump or two.
Thank you
Instructor
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 218
Likes: 0
From: Portland CT
68's are smaller diameter pin diameter; 69's larger. Think the 68 was 1/4" and the 69 was 5/16".
The receivers in the corners of the folding top are definately different but should swap out with 69 parts if you go that route.
The receivers in the corners of the folding top are definately different but should swap out with 69 parts if you go that route.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 848
Likes: 60
From: CA
I'm not sure what you mean.
There are three main parts to the system:
1. The PIN HOUSING (or bracket) that bolts to the frame and holds the pin (I think this is the part you're referring to?)
2. The PIN that screws into the housing and clips into the latch under the deck lid
3. The LATCH (left and right) under the deck lid that captures the pin
Which part isn't working?
Ed
There are three main parts to the system:
1. The PIN HOUSING (or bracket) that bolts to the frame and holds the pin (I think this is the part you're referring to?)
2. The PIN that screws into the housing and clips into the latch under the deck lid
3. The LATCH (left and right) under the deck lid that captures the pin
Which part isn't working?
Ed
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 184
Likes: 2
From: FL
The cornor holes
I have a 68 Vert and my little pin receiving holes were broken. Actually wore out. You are correct they are a poor design. I see them on the bay every now and then by they are pot metal and break easy. I am assuming you are talking about the two receivers mounted with two screws on the top outside cornors of the windshield molding. These are the parts that receive the front pin mounts of the top when up.
I replaced both of the molding (cornors) that have the receiving holes built into them (69 through 75) with a pair made for a 69. No problems. You may have to drill a new hole in the windshield frame for one of the mounting screws but thats it. I have had no problems with them at all. Sure beats a pair of new ones at $400 for a pair. I think I got my end parts from Paragon. It has been a while.
Bottom line is as long as you don't care about being politically correct with your Vette then get the 69 end peices and fix it. Check the bay and you might get lucky but remember they will be old and worn.
Good luck.
I replaced both of the molding (cornors) that have the receiving holes built into them (69 through 75) with a pair made for a 69. No problems. You may have to drill a new hole in the windshield frame for one of the mounting screws but thats it. I have had no problems with them at all. Sure beats a pair of new ones at $400 for a pair. I think I got my end parts from Paragon. It has been a while.
Bottom line is as long as you don't care about being politically correct with your Vette then get the 69 end peices and fix it. Check the bay and you might get lucky but remember they will be old and worn.
Good luck.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 848
Likes: 60
From: CA
Okay, NOW I get what you're looking for!! (Duh...)
RIK'S has the header moldings for $85.00 a set (P/N THW110), but you're right, they only have them for 69 and later. I don't know of anyone selling the 68 setup so ebay would be your best bet. If condor7 says the 69 and later will work, go for it!
Ed
RIK'S has the header moldings for $85.00 a set (P/N THW110), but you're right, they only have them for 69 and later. I don't know of anyone selling the 68 setup so ebay would be your best bet. If condor7 says the 69 and later will work, go for it!
Ed
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
Thanks for the information, I figured this would work.
While I like being "politically" correct and this car is 99% original, I also like driving it and spending $400+ on a part that more than likely will just break again does not make a lot of sense. I'll keep the old parts so I can be PC later on.
Thanks again for your time.
While I like being "politically" correct and this car is 99% original, I also like driving it and spending $400+ on a part that more than likely will just break again does not make a lot of sense. I'll keep the old parts so I can be PC later on.
Thanks again for your time.
I have a 68 Vert and my little pin receiving holes were broken. Actually wore out. You are correct they are a poor design. I see them on the bay every now and then by they are pot metal and break easy. I am assuming you are talking about the two receivers mounted with two screws on the top outside cornors of the windshield molding. These are the parts that receive the front pin mounts of the top when up.
I replaced both of the molding (cornors) that have the receiving holes built into them (69 through 75) with a pair made for a 69. No problems. You may have to drill a new hole in the windshield frame for one of the mounting screws but thats it. I have had no problems with them at all. Sure beats a pair of new ones at $400 for a pair. I think I got my end parts from Paragon. It has been a while.
Bottom line is as long as you don't care about being politically correct with your Vette then get the 69 end peices and fix it. Check the bay and you might get lucky but remember they will be old and worn.
Good luck.
I replaced both of the molding (cornors) that have the receiving holes built into them (69 through 75) with a pair made for a 69. No problems. You may have to drill a new hole in the windshield frame for one of the mounting screws but thats it. I have had no problems with them at all. Sure beats a pair of new ones at $400 for a pair. I think I got my end parts from Paragon. It has been a while.
Bottom line is as long as you don't care about being politically correct with your Vette then get the 69 end peices and fix it. Check the bay and you might get lucky but remember they will be old and worn.
Good luck.
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,381
Likes: 416
From: N J
Here ya go if your header peices are pitted.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/corve...item2eab32fac4
I know the parts you are talking about, mine are shot also, pretty worn out. Another 68 only part.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/corve...item2eab32fac4
I know the parts you are talking about, mine are shot also, pretty worn out. Another 68 only part.
Former Vendor
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 76,656
Likes: 1,853
From: Jeffersonville Indiana 812-288-7103
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15
The early 68 header corners are very hard to find. We had a customer that looked for a good set for a year. I know it sounds steep, but that really is not a bad price for a re-chromed original set.
The 69-75 style can be used as a replacement but you have to make other changes.
The 69-75 style can be used as a replacement but you have to make other changes.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 86
Likes: 0
From: Sunnyvale Texas
I just had mine replaced. the corner ones that fit 69 and up along with the pins for the 69 and up. to do the change out will require removing the windshield. mine broke and had to purchase new one. Its worth the time and money to change out. i can see why they made the change from a 2 peice to a 1 peice. by the way the reason i had to remove the w/s is that there are 2 screws that are covered up by the w/s. good luck with the change out