If this is your first visit, be sure to
check out the FAQ by clicking the
link above. You must be an NCRS member
before you can post: click the Join NCRS link above to join. To start viewing messages,
select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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).
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.
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.
We use cookies to deliver our services, and to analyze site activity. We do not share or sell any personal information about our users. For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.
By clicking "I AGREE" below, you agree to our Privacy Policy and our personal data processing and cookie practices as described therein. You also acknowledge that this forum may be hosted outside your country and you consent to the collection, storage, and processing of your data in the country where this forum is hosted.
Tweet
Comment