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72 Supreme Convertible question - entire top removal
Newbie question, I am rescuing my 72 Supreme convertible after 27 years in a barn.
Car is fairly solid, but will need quarters repaired.
The top is quite usable, it may need tacking strip renewed in one corner. I would like to remove the complete top mechanism, hydraulics, canvas, and all, before it goes to paint, then reinstall afterwards.
Is it possible to remove complete top and reinstall afterwards? Pics before and after barn find initial wash.
I have not removed a complete convertible top assembly. I have a 1971 Fisher Body Service Manual I have used when tweaking, aligning the top & R&R of cylinders, pump, etc. Removing the complete top it states to lower the top "part-way". I'd suggest you follow the 1972 Fisher Body Service Manual which provides good coverage/explanations/diagrams for removal/assembly of both the top & the Hydro-Lectric system "A" body style convertible tops.
Yes, you can remove the entire folding assembly. First, I would disconnect the lift cylinders to remove the folding mechanism, I removed mine in the closed (down) position without the top fabric; then remove the hydraulics (rams, motor, hoses) as a second step. Why are you removing the top assembly? I'm asking because once you remove it from the car you've made it much more difficult for the installer to install a new top. The installer typically takes measurements and makes alignment marks using the old top as a guide. My car had sat in a West Texas cow pasture for many years and there really wasn't anything left of the original top, and the top frame rails and front header bow were badly rusted. I removed and disassembled the entire frame mechanism to bead blast and repaint each part; an endeavor not for the faint of heart. My installer had a hell of a time getting the new top to line up properly, even the Fisher body wasn't much help; the manual frequently stated to take measurements from the old top and transfer them to the new top.
Here's a link to my build thread; the top restoration begins at post #244. Hopefully this is helpful.
Yes, you can remove the entire folding assembly. First, I would disconnect the lift cylinders to remove the folding mechanism, I removed mine in the closed (down) position without the top fabric; then remove the hydraulics (rams, motor, hoses) as a second step. Why are you removing the top assembly? I'm asking because once you remove it from the car you've made it much more difficult for the installer to install a new top. The installer typically takes measurements and makes alignment marks using the old top as a guide. My car had sat in a West Texas cow pasture for many years and there really wasn't anything left of the original top, and the top frame rails and front header bow were badly rusted. I removed and disassembled the entire frame mechanism to bead blast and repaint each part; an endeavor not for the faint of heart. My installer had a hell of a time getting the new top to line up properly, even the Fisher body wasn't much help; the manual frequently stated to take measurements from the old top and transfer them to the new top.
Here's a link to my build thread; the top restoration begins at post #244. Hopefully this is helpful.
wonderful thank you sir 👌✌️
I am only seeking to remove the whole mechanism, canvas included, it is still usable. Removing it to keep it out of the way while quarters and floor are repaired ✌️
Last edited by flameorange; Jan 18, 2025 at 08:18 PM.
