So many questions...C1

[Ron B.]

1) I simply cannot get the retainer into the slots around the trunk lock on my '57. Please tell me what to do. Have already broken two trying to bend them into shape. Is there a trick (before I damage the trunk lid)?

2) I've mounted the top bows on the car. I don't seem to be able to collapse them enough to close the deck lid. There is give in the front section, the part that attaches to the windshield, but short of bending the metal frame, it won't stay down. I don't see anything obvious, but this is the first time I've done this. Any hints on possible adjustments?

3) What kind of sealer needs to placed on the windshield or body before it's installed and where, other than the gasket? I see indications of oz. of sealer all over the build diagram but it's not very clear. I need some kindly advice from veteran builders.

Thanks to all...again!

[Ed Jennings]

Re: So many questions...C1

#1 No idea without looking at it.
#2 The adjustment of the inner frame brackets (behind the seats) can prevent the frame from folding all the way. If I had to guess, I would think the brackets need to move up just slightly. If you go too far, the horizontal frame rails won't fully extend.
#3 I just assembled the windshield on my 62 using no sealer at all. The factory had used some sealer between the gasket and the lower channel. I cleaned out most of what they had installed and did not ad any. I used NOTHING between the gasket and the glass. It's really not an all weather car anyway, and I'm sure it will leak a lot of other places long before it leaks around the windshield. I've put one together before with the sealer and never did get all the mess cleaned up.

[Dave Christensen]

Re: So many questions...C1

1. Many of the parts suppliers are selling the same clip used to hold the door lock for the trunk lock. As you are learning, I learned the same thing - it does not fit! No way, no how. Mary Jo says that she has the correct ones. (She also sold me the wrong one for the trunk) They are supposed to be a little shorter than the door lock retainers. I used a door lock retainer that I had left over from my 57 T'bird. I probably should not admit to using a Ford part on my Vette, but it works!

2. Can't help with the top questions. I have my own nighmares going on with that assembly now.

3. I did not use any sealer on the windshield. That is a mess that I didn't need. My car will never be driven in the rain. I understand that they leaked when new anyway. Mine will perform just like a new one in that area!

have fun!

[Bob Malone #35242]

Re: So many questions...C1

1. I had the same problem with the lock retainer on my '60. I attributed it to someone building up fiberglass under the hole which had been worked to make the hole round again. I had to grind down some of the buildup on the underside and it worked fine.
2. I'm about to start putting my folding top together, I may be asking for your advice soon.
3. Likewise, I eliminated all sealer from my windshield when I put it together. Putting the windshield assembly together is difficult enough without the added hassle of gooey stuff.

[Calvin M.]

Re: So many questions...C1

--Regarding the sealer, I used 3M Windo Weld Sealer between the glass and weatherstrip, and between the w/s and the respective channel in the posts and header. It seemed to work well, but I don't plan to test it out at the car wash.
--Your hassle with the trunk lock retaining clip brings back memories of mine. What finally worked, after days of messing around, was to 1)clip off 1/8" from the end prongs of the clip to make it shorter, 2)bend it slightly so it better resembles the curvature of the trunk, and 3) lightly lub the ends of the clip so it will slide more easily on the rough surface of the trunk interior. To finally get it to fully engage, I tapped it into place with a small socket extension. Good luck!

[Ron B.]

Re: So many questions...C1

My thanks to everyone. I haven't solved the problems yet, you know...misery loves company. At least I know I'm not the only one going through this. No wonder my mother was mad when I gave up collecting stamps! Thanks again. Anyone else care to join in the fun?