We ended up using the glass replacement back window that came with the top for ''72 GM A-bodies. If your A-body is a ''67 model, the glass is zipped in; for ''72 it is sewn in. In addition to our replacement top, we also picked up a top-pad kit that protects the top from being pinched in the folding mechanism.
Virtually every convertible top is installed in the same fashion. The top is stapled to the frame via tack strips. Depending on the age of the vehicle, the tack strip will be either pressed cardboard '60s and '70s vehicles or vinyl rubber modern convertibles. The replacement solution is vinyl rubber-better because cardboard holds water and the top frame is metal.
Owing to this, the rear bow on our '71 Buick GS had several sections of heavy rust. While our piece was savable, it was very close to needing replacement. The old cardboard is very difficult to remove and can take hours, so be prepared. The well liner and water trough sustain a lot of abuse over the years, especially on a leaky top.
The water trough is made of thin plastic, and the small tabs are easily broken. Now put the new top over the old one and compare reference marks.
If you see differences, use half the distance between the two marks as your reference. Position the top over the framework until it sits right. Secure the top to the No. Raise the top off the windshield header and attach all cables. Center the top valance over the No. Pull out fullness and wrinkles. Using screws and contact cement, fasten the quarter flaps in position.
Re-install weatherstripping along the side rails, using screws and trim adhesive to hold it in place. Latch the top to the windshield and pull the fabric gently over the No. Use a pencil to mark its position. Raise the top and pull the fabric a quarter inch past the reference mark. Secure it to the bow with screws, staples and glue. At each step, make sure to check for proper top appearance and operation.
Next, install the roll at the front that overlaps the windshield header. With top latched, staple the new fabric to the tacking strip. Start at the front of the tacking strip and move to the rear. Use only a few staples so you can make pulls and adjustments as you move around the curved sections.
Try to eliminate wrinkles. Avoid excessive stretching. Keep the top material flat. Install the wire-on over the staples holding the top to the No. Enter your address or zipcode Find It. Locate an Installer To help ensure proper fit and finish, and protect the convertible owner's investment, we highly recommend convertible tops be installed by Professional Installers. Enter your address or zipcode Find It Locate an Installer To help ensure proper fit and finish, and protect the convertible owner's investment, we highly recommend convertible tops be installed by Professional Installers.
La Brea Ave. Pacific Ave. Spencer Co. Lomita Blvd. Dana Point, CA www. Prairie Ave Hawthorne, CA www. Sid Fine Uph W. Naples, FL www. Custom Upholstery N.
Wrinkles here will definitely show later. Moving to the header bar, line up the scribe marks on the top with the bar, test-fitting as you go. Use the tabs on the side as a reference point—they should fold over and meet the side rails squarely. Glue the top to the header rail, making sure that any creases are removed.
If necessary, pull the top away and re-attach—the glue stays tacky for 30 minutes. Rivet the new header seal rails to the header and trim the excess top material, using the header rail as a guide. Push the new header seals in the channel. The header seal and window rubber will form a joint to keep out the weather.
Trim excess seal material. Moving inside, secure the two top tabs to the frame with the supplied hardware. Attach snaps, starting at the center of the rear bar and working toward the doors, using the existing snap holes as guides. Tagged: convertible , how to , install , top , TR6.
July 6, June 7,
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