Hello,
I'm having a problem with my convertible top frame on my 72 cutlass. I've had the car for about a year and the top has been down the whole time. I was getting ready to clean it up and install a brand new top and i noticed its not closing all the way. I can't even lock the locks. I'm including a few pics to see if someone can help me. I dont know if its bent or tweaked or simply the wrong one.
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Are you operating the top using the electric pump? In the 4th pic it looks like there is no fluid in the lines, or a lot of air. Kinda hard to tell from pic, but if so should be bled.

 

I tried using the pump and doing it manually. Either way I can't seem to get the top to line up at the header bow correctly.

 

It probably needs to be adjusted.

If the pump / motor isn't working right, though, I'd try disconnecting the pistons and then getting it lined up by hand.

Don't forget to get new nailing strips - yours are shot!

- Eric

 

Thanks MD. I'll try that again.
I also have everything brand new for the top. tack strips, pads, liner, glass, cables, everything.

 

Does anyone else have any ideas?

 

I think you are forcing it down at the front before the back has come all the way forward. Look at how the 1/4 glass is so far back still.

 

The adjustment procedure is in the body manual if you have it.
If not, lemme know and i can seek it tomorrow.

 

How could/would I force it down? I took the picture of the 1/4 glass to show you the distance from the frame. It ends up like this when i use the motor to raise and lower the top and when I do it manually.

 

I don't have the manual. Can you please find out how to do the adjustment please?
Thank you

 

There are 2 or 3 adjustments that I am aware of.
You can adjust the header panel a small amount forward.
But the main adjustment is located at the rear of the top frame assembly.
In these pics, find the arm that is bolted to the frame mounting that bolts to the body. That mount has a serated surface, and a 1/2 bushing that is also serated, so that this arm does not move. If you loosen this bolt, the arm will allow the top to move significantly forward, which your top needs. It may take multiple attempts to get this right, but this is where you should start. Keep in mind that future adjustments might be necessary after the top canvas / rear window is being installed.
I had my top frame in 7 pieces, and spent many hours reassembling it, and getting the adjustments just right.
Good luck.

 

Thank you 69442. I will definitely be trying that tomorrow afternoon.

 

Does anyone have a serated lock bushing like this one?

 

I don't know much about the adjustments but if things are not lining up properly please put your rear windows down, it looks like the R/R window is touching the tops frame. I never lower or raise my top unless the windows are at least 1/2 way down.

one other thing, i know my motor strains a bit when the car isn't running,so if your are operating the top on just battery,try hooking up a charger to give it a little extra boost,especially in the going up mode.

one other tip, after all is said and done, keep the top in the up position for a long peroid especially if it's real snug, it will help stretch it out, let it get some sun on it too. You don't have to let it bake for hours but the warmth of the sun will help.

good luck,hope things work out properly,

 

I have the same issue, but neither 1 of those adjustments will move the top more forward for me. and my rear window glass will not fit in the seal as your picture shows, anyone have any other ideas as to what is going on? my driver and passenger windows fit properly in the seals.