Conv. Top Springs

[John L.]

Does anyone know how to remove the springs to a 68 conv. top cover without using tool J-9559? It is almost impossible to get at the outboard side top screws. I would guess that in order to remove the screws one would have to remove the sring for clearance. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks.........

John

[Wayne W.]

Re: Conv. Top Springs

I assume you are talking about the spring down the sides just above the windows. I always drill off the rivets with the top folded back. This removes any tension in the spring. Install the same way.

[John L.]

Re: Conv. Top Springs

Wayne,

Thanks for the response. I'm not sure what you mean about the springs being above a window. The springs are located in supports that sit on the area where the #4 mounts are located. I have no problem removing the bottom bolt however there are two bolts that attach to the inside edge of the convertible top compartment. The bolt on the outboard side of the car has a wall next to it and the spring is in the way. I'm not sure how to go about removing it with out a special tool (J-9559). Your suggestion to drill out the rivets doesn't seem to release the tension on the spring so it can't be easily removed. Are we talking about the same thing here? Also, do you know where to get the GM tool J-9559?

Thanks for your help..............

John

[Joe L.]

Re: Conv. Top Springs

John------

Tool J-9559 used to be available from Kent-Moore Tools. However, this particular tool has been discontinued for years.

[Wayne W.]

Re: Conv. Top Springs

OK, we have our wires crossed. You mean the springs on the deck lid. When you said convt. top cover I thought you meant the top fabric.

[John L.]

Re: Conv. Top Springs

Wayne,

It's the springs on the "deck lid". Sorry for the confusion. Any ideas on how to remove the deck lid supports?

Thanks.........

John

[Wayne W.]

Re: Conv. Top Springs

The supports can be removed, but I never found it necessary. When I have to remove a spring for some reason, I just pry it off with a large screwdriver. I have a home made tool to reinstall. Made from a length of muffler pipe with the ends closed off. It also can be shoehorned with a tool like an old brake spring tool.

[John L.]

Re: Conv. Top Springs

Wayne,

Thanks for the info. I'll try creating a tool out of muffler pipe. I have to take the supports off to repair one area and also it looks like the #4 mounts are connected to them (I have to repair them too).

John

[Bob Unkel]

Re: Conv. Top Springs

I had same problem on 73. Ended up using a Sears Gear Wrench with 5 degrees of movement per click. You get one click per move. It takes time, but it can be done. Got both of mine out which made it easier to get to #4 captive nut under the spring support.

[John H.]

Re: Conv. Top Springs

BTW, Eastwood sells a really slick set of three socket adapters that slip into the gear wrenches so you can use the wrenches with sockets or extensions; the 1/4"-drive adapter pops into a 3/8" wrench, the 3/8"-drive adapter pops into a 1/2" wrench, and the 1/2"-drive adapter fits in a 3/4" wrench; each adapter has an "O"-ring on it to retain them in the wrench opening. They're REALLY handy in tight-swing clearance conditions, and the O.D. of the adapters are serrated and are slightly larger than the wrench head so you can turn them with your fingers if you need to. Great addition to my toolbox.