Spring is finally here and it's time to take the top off! I have seen hoists that hang from the ceiling that are a strap and pulley configuration for mercedes removable hardtops. Can I do this with a C1? They basically "hook" the front, back and sides and can lift the top out of the way. Just want to be sure that hanging the top in this fashion for the summer will not hurt it. I understand that the weather stripping may get a little deformed where the hooks are but leaving it stored on the floor (or in the reach of wife, kids and dog) is likely a greater hazard. Any recommended storage methods or lift design suggestions appreciated. Thanks, Ken
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Re: C1 Hardtop Storage / Hoist
Corvette Central, et al, sells a hard top lift thing that attaches to the ceiling, assuming you have one. I bought one, but, of course, have never even taken it out of the package - therefore, my knowledge on that item is limited. On the other hand, over the years, if you just want to take the top off, I lightly pad the floor and stick the front header stainless trim on that pad and then lean the bottom of the rear against the wall. This way, at least, you don't screw up the weatherstrip. It may, however, give an inviting location to lean a bicycle against. The lift idea at least lets you deal with the situation without help. -
Re: C1 Hardtop Storage / Hoist
Ken, I have used the ceiling hoist for many years. Got mine from Vette Products in Lake Orion, MI. Have experimented with many "cushioning" devises to protect the weatherstrips and chrome moldings as well. Since my top was a 1962, the rear center rubber presented a challenge. I have finally ended up inserting terry cloth towels between the nylon hoist straps on the sides and in the rear center I made a wooden U-shaped saddle about a foot long that the rubber seal sits in. I put a terry towel in the saddle first and hold the saddle against the rubber seal as I lift the hoist. One tip: the nylon strand ropes that are furnished with the hoist soon unravel. Mine were like a waterski rope. I went to the hardware and bought braided nylon the same diameter and it works much smoother than the originals. I'm in Florida now, so the roof is stored 90% of the year with no damage.Chuck Lyman
Kansas City ChapterComment
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Re: C1 Hardtop Storage / Hoist
John Deere sells a handy-dandy device, model 6420, that negates the need for a helper when removing a C-1 thru 3 vet hardtops. Make sure you order the 640 loader attachment with the model 6420. Whole package from Mr Deere will run about what 1 1/2 new Z06s will cost you but boy it sure gets the job done, and remember, nothing runs like a Deere. ( Its been said that I have way tooooo much time on my hands)Comment
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Re: C1 Hardtop Storage / Hoist
Is there any way I can convince Jeff Cook to remove this guy's antenna???Comment
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Re: C1 Hardtop Storage / Hoist
I have one of those devices in my garage. I have used it a time or two, but it is much easier to get someone to help R&I the top. They are not recommended for top storage, though I think Corvette America has a more expensive model that is suppose to be suitable for storage.
If you do elect to use one for storage, you need to do something such as the saddle described above to protect the w/s.
I usually lean mine against the wall, front stainless down on something soft. An old tire is an excellent pad. May not keep it away from kids and dogs though.Comment
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Re: C1 Hardtop Storage / Hoist
I have had the hoist for over 20 years (since my kids were small). The big advantage is like already stated that you can remove it by yourself. In recent years I have become more paranoid about it falling from the hoist. No reason for this other than old age I guess. I made a "jig" that supports it where it bolts to the car for long term storage (winters) on a shelf. This is needed to keep the soft top up and stretched. It seems to work great but is a pain to get out and put away. Don H.Comment
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Hardtop Storage
A few years ago I wrote an article for The Corvette Restorer about a method of hardtop storage that I found worked well for me. (See attached photo link.) I took a 5/16" stainless steel rod threaded on both ends and ran it through the sidemount brackets of the hardtop. I then attached fender washers and nuts. With the rod installed, I was able to hang the hardtop in the inverted position on hooks turned into the wall. The front of the top can be protected from the wall with a cushion of some sort. I have used this method for 20 years with several tops and without a problem. Good luck. Jim Weeks - Member #2978Comment
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