Convertible top problems
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From: Playa del Carmen Old Mexico
Convertible top problems
The rear catches of my convertible top don't stay closed/ locked in place. Mostly this is OK as I drive in the sunshine with the roof down, but...
The release cables work fine, but I guess there is some adjustment that needs to be made to make the catches snap shut and not open without the cable release being pulled.
Anyone have a suggestion on the repair/ mod for this ?
Thanks
JEZ
The release cables work fine, but I guess there is some adjustment that needs to be made to make the catches snap shut and not open without the cable release being pulled.
Anyone have a suggestion on the repair/ mod for this ?
Thanks
JEZ
Last edited by Mexc4; Aug 16, 2012 at 12:17 PM.
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From: Manheim Pennsylvania
I think you are referring to the area latches on each side of the rear window. I would check for worn latch pins and or latches. When you push down on the roof you should feel/hear the latches make.
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From: Playa del Carmen Old Mexico
You recommend replacing the pins and the latches? I will check them for obvious wear -I'm guessing that the pins will show wear? Maybe I can get some machined here easily...
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From: Manheim Pennsylvania
The system is so simple. Check to make sure the latches are at the correct position. I just checked mine and they about 1/4 of the way into the hole. There doesn't appear to be any adjustment, maybe the springs are weak?
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From: Playa del Carmen Old Mexico
I'm going to check it all out tomorrow and get back to you if I haven't worked it all out on my own -which is possible but not always the case!
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I don't have a C4 vert any more but I recall adjusting the pins on my 87 due to the same problem. There was a hex nut on each pin that allowed you to do this. I cannot remember if the 96 had them or not but it would be odd if they were not adjustable also. I do recall that the hardware on the 89-96 verts were different so that the car could accomodate a hard top.
It sounds to me like your pins are not fully seating into the latch holes and I bet a quarter turn deeper or a couple of stainless steel washers would fix your problem.
I love convertibles!
I was at a car show back in 1998 and driving my black 81 vert (it had been converted from a coupe). As I left the park I noticed that there were 4 Corvette convertibles in front of me and that all the drivers had gray hair and were going bald. I thought to myself, " Geez, what a bunch of old farts!" Then I realized that I too was going gray and balding. Getting old sucks but ignoring it is fun!
It sounds to me like your pins are not fully seating into the latch holes and I bet a quarter turn deeper or a couple of stainless steel washers would fix your problem.
I love convertibles!
I was at a car show back in 1998 and driving my black 81 vert (it had been converted from a coupe). As I left the park I noticed that there were 4 Corvette convertibles in front of me and that all the drivers had gray hair and were going bald. I thought to myself, " Geez, what a bunch of old farts!" Then I realized that I too was going gray and balding. Getting old sucks but ignoring it is fun!
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From: Manheim Pennsylvania
Just had this thought. My car has no evidence of lube on the pins and latches. If your car has the wrong type lube the latches could be adjusted correctly but not hold due to lubrication.
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From: Playa del Carmen Old Mexico
All will be revealed tomorrow, when I get it to bits and have a look.
The pins seem OK - no obvious signs of wear or damage. There is no lube on them whatsoever. The catch operates fine via the pull handle. The hex nut and extending them or the part inside which grips is at fault methinks... but I been wrong before!
The pins seem OK - no obvious signs of wear or damage. There is no lube on them whatsoever. The catch operates fine via the pull handle. The hex nut and extending them or the part inside which grips is at fault methinks... but I been wrong before!
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Thread Starter
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Joined: Jul 2012
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From: Playa del Carmen Old Mexico
... I recall adjusting the pins on my 87 due to the same problem. There was a hex nut on each pin that allowed you to do this...
It sounds to me like your pins are not fully seating into the latch holes and I bet a quarter turn deeper or a couple of stainless steel washers would fix your problem.
I love convertibles!
I was at a car show back in 1998 and driving my black 81 vert (it had been converted from a coupe). As I left the park I noticed that there were 4 Corvette convertibles in front of me and that all the drivers had gray hair and were going bald. I thought to myself, " Geez, what a bunch of old farts!" Then I realized that I too was going gray and balding. Getting old sucks but ignoring it is fun!
It sounds to me like your pins are not fully seating into the latch holes and I bet a quarter turn deeper or a couple of stainless steel washers would fix your problem.
I love convertibles!
I was at a car show back in 1998 and driving my black 81 vert (it had been converted from a coupe). As I left the park I noticed that there were 4 Corvette convertibles in front of me and that all the drivers had gray hair and were going bald. I thought to myself, " Geez, what a bunch of old farts!" Then I realized that I too was going gray and balding. Getting old sucks but ignoring it is fun!
Turning the the hex nut solved the problem in two minutes. Brilliant.
I put silicone behind the washer to stop it rattling, and to pack it out. Like a flexible washer.
I don't own anything but convertibles, and they are the best!
Those gray haired old farts... I would be one of them but all the hair is gone!
Thanks again everyone who chimed in!