CONVERTIBLE TOP
The convertible top was in really sad shape. There were holes in the sides and – worst of all – the back window was a piece of opaque (for lack of a better word) plastic pop riveted to the top. Not only could you not see out of it, it was not weather tight.
After removing the old top, I could see the old pads and straps. The staples were very rusted (as can be seen in the photos below). The staples in the pads were not covered so they could rub against the convertible top. This may be appropriate but I think they should not come in contact with the top. The staples in the front bow had pulled loose and the bow would not stay in position as it should. The frame had surface rust but, overall, it was in pretty good shape. I removed the frame, repainted it, and replaced the tack strips. The original tack strips were probably ok but I chose to replace them anyway.
I borrowed the Al Knoch installation video from Gary in TN. I was a little apprehensive installing the top until I watched the video. My suggestion – DO NOT ATTEMPT INSTALLING THE CONVERTIBLE TOP WITHOUT WATCHING THIS VIDEO. Just take it slow and follow Al through the steps.
After painting the top frame and installing it back on the car. The next step was to install the new pads and straps. You will notice that no staples are showing on the new pad.
I had to do some “re-stapling” in a few areas but it was really not that difficult to get the new top on. I think it came out ok. There are a couple of areas that could have been better but I’m not telling where they are.
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