C1 59 convertible top frame bows - broken screws - what to do?

[Ian G.]

I'm hoping to get some sage advice. I'm in the process of restoring my convertible top for my 59 and I have two bows that have broken off screws in them. Between the two bows, there are four broken screws, with no heads. So they would need to be drilled out. My local machinist says he could give it a shot, but the holes would likely be buggered up. He is a wizard at removing busted bolts and I've taken parts to him with large bolts and small screws on four occasions and he's managed to get them out cleanly, even screws from the convertible top front bow. He always warns me it can go south. But those tiny screws had heads... I can get new repro bows for about $365 at Doc rebuild, or spend maybe $100 to have my machinist give it the college try. if the holes get buggered up, I will need to buy repros anyway... or have welder fill them and then I tap them, which probably costs more than the repros at the end of it.

What do you think?

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[Mike M.]

Re: C1 59 convertible top frame bows - broken screws - what to do?

have same problem with 57 bows. i simply drilled and tapped alongside of the broken screws. since the screws are hidden under the pads, nobody but u and i will know. mike

[Ian G.]

Re: C1 59 convertible top frame bows - broken screws - what to do?

Great advice! Thanks Mike.

[Brad H.]

Re: C1 59 convertible top frame bows - broken screws - what to do?

If you wanted to save the money, and you have a dremmel tool and bits, practice first, and do it yourself. A clean job and you can use the same holes. Brad.

[Pat H.]

Re: C1 59 convertible top frame bows - broken screws - what to do?

Years ago I ran into the same dilemma. Some of the screws were already broken off so I drilled them out and re tapped them used the next size up. That was fine for a driver, but when it came time to restore the car. I opted to replace the ones I previous drilled out . The screws I believe are 6-32 or 6-40, I purchased everything from Coffman in Mansfield, OH. They were pretty much dead on including the arch. The bow on top of the window was previously replace but did not have the correct arch, so I also purchased that one as well. I had the original rear bow to compare and it ned a slight tweek on the arch. Tops on the car and looks just like the factory installed one.