So, it has been years since I did a convertible top. About 1/2 way threw this one. I have not found a thread about doing that for any pointers. If someone could direct me to one or give me pointers that would be great.
Thanks
Larry

 

I wish you all the luck in the world and I will be watching this thread to see how its done as well. My Olds had the most pathetic ripped vinyl top ever so I removed it.
If its anything like upholstery, there may be special tools involved.

 

Thanks, I actually purchased an instruction manual which really didn't do that much for me. Just gave me the measurements for the 4th bow that I needed. I have done a few but it has been years. A good staple gun is the best tool and lots of time and patients is needed for sure. The well liner instructions really don't say much, as well as the front vinyl added piece info. Otherwise all is pretty straight forward. I have it on with the cables in place, the trim sticks in place, side weather strips have been installed that old the top at the back. We are having lots of sun that helps to keep it soft and plyable. The final adjustments and final steps would be where I need the most help.
Thanks
Larry

 

Typically I and others here would recommend a shop tackle this, due to the complexity, the need for multiple people, and the chances of screwing up the top.
If you choose to do it yourself, the GM body manual gives lots of good instruction. However it may not be really complete, depending on your knowledge and experience level. The doors and windows need to be accurately aligned so you can then align the top frame to the windows.

 

The Fisher Body Manual has all of the information you need in the convertible top chapter.
The odds are that the "instruction manual" is merely a photocopy of this chapter, so downloading it for free from WildAboutCars at the link above would be cheaper.

Motor, if I am not mistaken, you have a post-'71 B-body, which has a completely different top mechanism and fitting method, so, whatever you do, DO NOT follow this thread. It will only confuse you later.

- Eric

 

Rob, That might be true for some. However, I have done these in the past just not recently. There isn't any rocket science involved for sure. Just patients and multiple hands and time. A good warm day helps to soften the top as well. A good set of instructions is the key. I don't recommend most of the ones out there. Just people looking to take advantage of others with crappy instructions. The factory service manual is good but does not cover issues like the fact that GM top designs allows the top pads to slip and cause the hindges to cut the top. There are tricks to stop that.

A very good power stapler is the only real speacil tool.

 

No it is a 67 442 Convertible
Currently own 4 67's and 3 66's

 

Not you, Lem, but Motor, who posted right after your OP.

The link I posted was to the '67 FBM.

- Eric

 

I just finished another top, this one on my 85 Riviera. By far one of the hardest but it came out really well. Most of the Fisher manual really did not help me, I just went off of what the manufacturer of the top told me to do and my experience. Here's a pic when I was pulling the top up to the header, the sides were attached last.



What tips or help are you looking for?

 

do you have new tack strips i reused the originals and had a difficult time getting them to hold

 

You HAVE to use new tack strips, and be VERY careful not to break the tabs that hold them in.

- Eric

 

The original tack strips of convertibles made back then are usually made of a heavy cardboard type of material. They are dry rotted by now and don't be surprised if some pieces of it come out with the old staples. Always a good idea to replace them, especially on the front and rear bows, as they carry the majority of the stress. The rear bow has three sets of staples driven into it.

The replacements are made of plastic and grip much better.

 

the bolted in well area strips gave me the most trouble

 

I agree the fisher manuals don't ahve much and the illustrations are poor. I am using all new parts including the tack strips. Thanks for all the imput so far.
Larry

 

Got it all done and it looks incredible. Two people needed. taking your time and good warm days. Top stayed soft and flexible. A power stapler and no other special tools really. Came out great.

 

Great to hear it!

These conventional tops aren't that hard - you just have to take your time and walk away when you get annoyed.

- Eric