When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I had Al install a new top and rear latches on my '60 at the Corvette Expo 2 years ago. The top has been put down and up a total of 4 times since the installation. One of the NEW rear latches would not open enough to engage the clip at the bottom of the top to secure it to the body. I wrote to Al and have not received a reply yet. This is the second issue I have had with the top. The straps that hold the rear window bows up when you lower the top aren't long enough to clip on to the forward fastener. He wanted proof that he installed the top by producing a receipt. I'm sure my wife didn't save it. I think he will expect the same with this issue. Anyone have any suggestions?
The reproduction latches are made in China, not by Al. They are junk. They don’t lift near as high as the originals. They also don’t clamp down as tight. Not really Al’s fault.
Last edited by mike coletta; 09-30-2018 at 05:31 PM.
IIRC correctly the rear latches (“D” rings) are adjustable and the footman straps aren’t a necessity. Many don’t install them. My first 61 top didn’t have them.
Frank, the front of the latch does not open wide enough to engage the "D" rings As a matter of fact, the arm that closes to secure the top barely opens. The handle retracts though.
Bud
IIRC correctly the rear latches (“D” rings) are adjustable and the footman straps aren’t a necessity. Many don’t install them. My first 61 top didn’t have them.
My advise is go see him at his facility or at a show if you can.
I never was able to get a response from them by calling or email when I had troubles with my top.
My dog isn't in this fight, but I just installed a top on a 56 in our shop so hopefully I'll be of some help.
Have you tried raising the rear trapeze on the rear bow? If you loosen the bolts you can move the adjustment of the rear trapeze swing arm and possibly get a better grip. We also replaced the latches and they seem to be doing just fine at this point... The top has only been on a few days and tomorrow we're going to steam it to remove wrinkles..
To be honest I'm not having any issue with the rear latches... I'm having issues with the fact that I'm dealing with a frankenvette that is a 56 car made from three other cars.... The holes for the rear latches were cut by the original builder and not cut in the correct place so this caused us some issues but we got through them.
09-30-2018, 05:22 PM
Al Knoch
