Removable Top Question
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 254
Likes: 41
From: Charlotte, NC
Removable Top Question
My '15 Z51's removable top "creaks" during warm weather. I tried all of the remedies posted, o rings, various types of rubber lubricants, adjusting the rear latch and I still think I am hearing the top creak every now and then. I broke down and bought the retro fit pins and latch strikers to put in this spring. Needless to say, at $220, it better work!
Here are my questions, there is a pigtail with a wire connector coming off the striker, does anyone have an idea what that is for? The other striker does not have that. I think it has to be a sensor of some sort. Has anyone replaced these? Doesn't look like a big job, but before I open up a can of worms, I figure I would ask and see if there is any advice out there. Thanks!
Here are my questions, there is a pigtail with a wire connector coming off the striker, does anyone have an idea what that is for? The other striker does not have that. I think it has to be a sensor of some sort. Has anyone replaced these? Doesn't look like a big job, but before I open up a can of worms, I figure I would ask and see if there is any advice out there. Thanks!
Safety Car
Joined: Jul 2018
Posts: 4,303
Likes: 2,055
From: Margate, FL
That wiiring connector is so when the roof is off it automatically disables the interior motion sensor. To me this seems like the opposite of what you want since its way easier for someone to reach in and grab things when top has been removed.
More info: https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...post1586404714
More info: https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...post1586404714
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 1,357
Likes: 558
From: MN
We all have the creak issues.. Here's the perfect solution... Get headers and an Xpipe. My carbon fiber top doesn't make a sound. The transparent top does, but only over bump and such. With my new headers the car sounds 10x better and you won't ever hear the top creak.. 
Moderator
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 15,266
Likes: 4,207
From: Northern Illinois
2023 Corvette of the Year Winner - Modified
2022 C7 of the Year Winner - Modified
St. Jude Donor '18 thru '25
I am curious . I have a 17 Z and have used and own all 3 tops I have never had a creak a squeal or anything.. is this really a problem for owners of the tinted one? I don't use the tinted one much primarily the exposed carbon and painted carbon.. just quiet a hell
Tech Contributor
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 41,058
Likes: 9,820
From: Charlotte, NC (formerly Endicott, NY)
The creaking may not be the roof. My issue turned out to be the passenger side interior window surround panel. The dealer mechanic removed the panel and put a piece of material to separate the panel from the section of the window it was rubbing on.
Bill
Bill
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 19,965
Likes: 6,769
From: Bonneville Salt Flats
I've four tops (two clear) for my two Vettes (C5 & C7). Only the clear on my C7 ever squeaked. It simply took careful adjustment (mainly of the rear latch) and lubing everything, perhaps once a year, to eliminate and keep the noise at bay. Neither top ever squeaks on the C5, even after 20 years. All the best. 
