1961 softtop installation

[Sander B.]

Hello i am working on a 1961 softtop but i cant figure out how to install
the softtop and weatherstrip to the rear bow (see pic)
because this is different than my 1960

i dont have the aim sheet for 61-62 does some one have a picture how it should be installed ??

thank you as always
Sander,

[Mike B.]

Re: 1961 softtop installation

Sander,

I just snapped a few photos of my '61 rear bow weatherstripping and will send them to you via your email address. I replaced my top last year with the aid of an instructional video from Al Knoch. He suggests that you mount the canvas top material from each side making sure that the side vertical seams line up where they should and then work towards the center. Otherwise if you start from the center, it might not reach to the correct end points.

The top and weatherstripping is held in place by the nylon cord as you can see in my photos. Again based on Al's advice, liberally lubricate everything that is going to go in the slot using light oil. Then using a blunt screwdriver, very carefully work (by rocking) the cord in place in the direction of the slot that is machined in the rear bow. This will drive you crazy at first as everything continually wants to pull free. But eventually enough will catch so that you can work around the entire rear bow. I found it helpful to remove the rear bow and work on a carpeted floor with the help of an assistant. You have to push rather hard to get everything into that slot. Don't forget to anticipate the foam rubber wedges that go at the ends of the bow where the main rubber weatherstripping stops. You might have to trim the rubber a bit as it has a tendency to stretch somewhat as you work around.

But before you do any of that, first make sure that the frame fits as well as possible. I found that I had to lower the rear brackets all the way down to make the rear side sections of the bow come anywhere close to the body. I've looked at many cars and few fit well. That's probably one of the main reasons that C-1 drivers don't like to drive in the rain!

Also make sure that your front header is nice and smooth and free from any glue, rust, etc. If you don't the lumps will show through in a very visible area. You can use contact cement or weatherstrip cement to secure the areas that need to be glued in place.

Good luck and don't hesitate to write if you need more photos or advice.

Mike