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T-top chrome trim question

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Old May 12, 2003 | 07:23 PM
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Default T-top chrome trim question

I just scored a set of 78-82 fiberglass t-tops, got them free but they need a few parts and obviously need to be painted. Would it be a wise choice to remove the chrome trim or is it impossible to get back on and keep it on as I think it would be? I don't need to rush this job as I already have the glass tops and the folding tops, so I can take my time and do it right.

I got something else free too but I'll wait until I get it home and can get pics, if it turns out as I think it's gonna be neat :jester
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Old May 12, 2003 | 08:02 PM
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Default Re: T-top chrome trim question (C3 Shark Tank)

Hi Scott
If your talking about the stainless trim around the t-top you're probably better off masking it.
At least that's what my bodyshop said when I had my '69 painted.
I believe that part is riveted on and will bend easy. :cheers:
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Old May 12, 2003 | 08:20 PM
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Default Re: T-top chrome trim question (69er)

Joe- where ya been man? You coming down next January? Say HI to the Mrs.

These are screwed on under the weatherstrip but look like they are pressed on around the edges. I'm betting they're a pain to get back on if removed but wanted to make sure first. I'd like to do a frame-off resto but if it's more hassle than it's worth i'll just sand around the trim.
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Old May 12, 2003 | 08:24 PM
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Default Re: T-top chrome trim question (C3 Shark Tank)

Joe- where ya been man? You coming down next January? Say HI to the Mrs.

These are screwed on under the weatherstrip but look like they are pressed on around the edges. I'm betting they're a pain to get back on if removed but wanted to make sure first. I'd like to do a frame-off resto but if it's more hassle than it's worth i'll just sand around the trim.

Seems they would bend easy.
I'd leave 'em on.
Still planning on coming down in Jan.
Cindy says hello. :cheers:
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Old May 12, 2003 | 08:39 PM
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Default Re: T-top chrome trim question (69er)

[QUOTE]
I'm betting they're a pain to get back on if removed but wanted to make sure first.

They are pretty easy too get back on. I set them on my legs and took a rubber mallet, lined them up and tapped them back on. It is a much nicer job if you take them off for paint. I belive there is a couple of rivets on each ttop. No problem just drill it out, and replace it when going back together. Just becareful not to go through the ttop when drilling.

:cheers: Larry
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Old May 12, 2003 | 08:49 PM
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Default Re: T-top chrome trim question (69vette66)

I took mine off of the 73 for painting also and it was not a problem. Just be gentle and patient while tapping them. Craig :yesnod:
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Old May 12, 2003 | 09:15 PM
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Default Re: T-top chrome trim question (CF6873)

69vette66 & CF6873 - Thanks! :thumbs: I'll go ahead and give it a try since I know it's been done before...can't hurt to try, I got them free afterall.
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Old May 12, 2003 | 09:22 PM
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Default Re: T-top chrome trim question (C3 Shark Tank)

Free is always good.

The fiberglass T-tops are DEFINATELY more comfortable than the glass T-tops. I have the glass ones on my Z28 and they are unbearable in the summer sun here in FLA. They'll be well worth the effort. :D :cheers:
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Old May 13, 2003 | 09:19 AM
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Default Re: T-top chrome trim question (79MakoL82)

mine were difficult to get off, because they were painted over in purple (body color) - about 5 or 6 coats. The edges appear to be pressed and crimped on, the bigger flat section is attached by screws under the weatherstripping. Getting back on was much easier than removing (for me). The pieces were actually pretty tough- did not bend at all. While I had them off, I had all the trim, including the t-bar, polished. Well worth the time and expense if you are repainting.
:cheers:
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Old May 13, 2003 | 09:50 AM
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Default Re: T-top chrome trim question (C3 Shark Tank)

The guy doing my paint job and body work said those strips are often left off. They fit so tight they can chip the paint whether they were removed for painting or not.
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