New Soft-top tack strips needed. Help, please.

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Aug 10, 2004 | 03:11 PM

CGGorman

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From: Smile, it's just the internet.

New Soft-top tack strips needed. Help, please.

Got my old top off a couple days ago. I need new tack strips. I anticipated this, so I have them on hand. I also ordered the Al Knoch video. His coverage of Tack Strip replacement is pretty sparce...

Before I eff-up something, can somebody tell how best to remove and replace these buggers? Is it a simple "pry out" and "press in" affair, or do I need to form them, glue them, shim, staple, or screw them...

Aug 10, 2004 | 04:24 PM

LFZ

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From: Lake Norman NC

just depends on how rusted your frame is. On the front tack strips, just pry the bars and scrape out the old ones. If too rusted, be careful not to snap off the clamps. Same for the back, but you can staple the backs in place along with the clamps from the frame. Not that bad of a job, but since you got the strips out, its a good time to clean up any rust and paint the frame. The new tack strips are nice and thick, so you'll be pleased.

Aug 10, 2004 | 04:45 PM

Wrencher

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From: NorCal

Mine were junk too, and I just scraped out the rotten stuff and pressed in the new. I used the replacement rubber looking ones which were a tight fit. I've heard since then that they do not hold staples as well as the original type, but mine seem OK. Redsharks' right on the money about rust. Mine's a CA car, yet the front header bow was junk and most of the clips were gone. I ended up glueing the front tack strip in ala bubba and held it in with rivets! As inexpensive as the tops are, I'll replace the bow when I do it again.

Because of all the stuff I found wrong AFTER I took the old top off the frame, I have to strongly recommend doing it in two sessions.

Hans

Aug 10, 2004 | 04:52 PM

Eddie 70

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From: Lenoir City Tennessee

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I am in need of a replacement top also. CGGorman, make sure to take lots of pics and share with us. I would like to see what I am up against when it comes time for me to do this job myself. Good luck to you.

Aug 10, 2004 | 05:12 PM

CGGorman

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From: Smile, it's just the internet.

You can call me Chris. Thanks for the tips.

I already have top and pads off. Very little rust, so that's not an issue. Just wanted to get an idea of how to proceed.

Re: pics...I already have the top off, which was basically a cut & rip party for my 6 yr. old. I didn't take any pics of that process, but there aren't really any surprises. Just gut a couple holes and start tearing... I'll snap a few along the way, though. Doesn't seem like too tough of a job to me.