C1 Convertible Top Frame Assembly

[Bob Malone #35242]

I'm just finishing up three years of what I thought was going to be a six month frame off restoration on my '60. I didn't take into account waiting for other people to finish doing things, like a nine month rework in the paint/body shop.
Anyway, one of the things I did many moons ago was disassemble my convertible top frame and had it powder coated. I have all the new bushings, bolts, etc. but I'm somewhat baffled by how to start putting the whole thing back together. Memory fails after so long, ya know.
Does anyone know where there is a step by step procedure for doing this. I've got an AIM but I need something with more detail on what hardware goes where, etc.

[Mike M.]

Re: C1 Convertible Top Frame Assembly

i know of no receip book re the re-assembly of a c-1 soft-top frame assembly. what your facing is a LARGE table to layout the various pieces and then experimenting with the reassembly process. might help to locate a local c-1 owner whose soft top assembly is intact to start the reassembly process.good luck, mike

[Bob Malone #35242]

Re: C1 Convertible Top Frame Assembly

Thanks Mike. Yeah, I guess the best thing to do is some good ole trial and error. I'm just concerned about putting everything in the right place so the pivot points actually pivot and the fixed points stay fixed.
I had planned on assembling it on the car. Any thoughts about that method vs. assembling it on the ground?

[Allen W.]

Re: C1 Convertible Top Frame Assembly

The CD that the club sells has an article from a previous Restorer article that comes with pictures that will help you place everything in the correct order.
Allen

[Richard E.]

Re: C1 Convertible Top Frame Assembly

Sure enough - Vol 13 #2 has a super article. Also Vol 14 #4 has an article on frame repair, should it be needed. I used the top installation article a lot to supplement/clarify the Al Knoch video. Regards...