65 Convertible Top Frame Adjustment

[Donald T.]

Hi guys! I am in the process of replacing my convertible top. I am having problems getting the top frame properly aligned with the door and glass with the weatherstripping installed. I have adjusted the frame to allow about 7/16" from the top of and parallel to the side window, which should be about right. I have adjusted the top weatherstripping as far outward toward the side glass as it will go, but it doesn't seem to be enough.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/1273288...57603845122779

The biggest problem is with the vertical weatherstripping. With the vertical weatherstripping installed the door will not close with the top up due to interference with the weather stripping. There is about 7/16" gap between the top of the door and the bottom of the vertical frame, and this doesn't seem to be enough. If I raise the back of the frame to increase the gap, it will throw off the alignment and no longer be parallel at the top of the window.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/1273288...57603845122779

http://www.flickr.com/photos/1273288...57603845122779

If I close the door and then put up the top, the weatherstripping just gets smashed and distorted on the door.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/1273288...57603845122779

Also, there is a large gap between the vertical weatherstripping and the window. It's not even close to fitting correctly. I don't see any way of adjusting the top frame to close this gap.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/1273288...57603845122779

http://www.flickr.com/photos/1273288...57603845122779

I've tried to adjust the header bow, the weatherstripping, and the rear of the frame and no amount of adjusting even gets it close. What am I doing wrong here? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Michael D.]

Re: 65 Convertible Top Frame Adjustment

Test

[Michael D.]

Re: 65 Convertible Top Frame Adjustment

Don,
Did you get an E-Mail on your top frame?

[Donald T.]

Nothing Yet

Mike,

Haven't received any responses yet. I might have stumped the board with this one!

[Wayne W.]

Re: Nothing Yet

I dont think you have stumped anyone. We just cant tell much from your pictures. There are several adjustments that can be done. Loosen the two side bolts and raise the frame. Push back on the lower area and get that right. Then latch at the front and see if the distance across the top is correct. If not, you may have to loosen the screws that adjust the top rail and adjust that for your window. If you do this you will have to drill another hole for the W/S attachment screw. In the picture, you still have the quarter trim on the car. Kind of difficult to adjust with that still there. This is all assuming that the window is properly adjusted etc. Sometimes they even need some serious attitude adjustment. (hammer)

[Wayne W.]

Re: Nothing Yet

Judging from this area, the frame may be bent.

[Donald T.]

Re: Nothing Yet

Thanks Wayne. I will take a closer look to see if the top frame is bent. That would explain why I can't seem to get it adjusted properly. I didn't have much trouble loosening the two rear bolts. It's a little tight with the quarter trim in place, but still enough room for a box end wrench. I've also tried adjusting at the header bow as well. Vent frames and windows have been removed and adjusted as well. Unless the top frame is bent as you suggest, I'm out of ideas.

Thanks!

[Michael D.]

Re: Nothing Yet

Don you have an E-Mail