How to keep the weather out?

[Jack A.]

I am rebulding my 61 and would like to get a Weatherstrip Package that includes everthing I will need including the Convertable top. I heard "Doc Rebuild" is good. I also need someone to repair a Top Latch (pin broken). Any help deeply appreciated.

Jacj Alexander 35730

[Bob R.]

Re: How to keep the weather out?

Try a company called Corvette Rubber

[Christopher R.]

Re: How to keep the weather out?

1. All the usual Corvette parts suppliers sell this weatherstripping. I believe you can buy it as a package. Check the prices from all your favorite suppliers. I believe 1 guy makes all these pieces and sells to the usual parts suppliers. That manufacturer may be Corvete Rubber. You may or may not be able to buy directly from them. Their prices may or may not be less than the usual suppliers. Most of the manufacturers will not undercut their resellers. You may find that you can get a discount for volume from another supplier on this weatherstripping by combining it with other items.

2. Sorry to disappoint you, but the top will leak anyway. No matter whose weatherstrip you use. Look in the archives and in the ST12 for the top adjustment procedures. Properly adjusting the top will decrease the leaks from the waterfall level to a moderate sized stream.

3. Aren't the frame rails over the side windows bent? You'll want to fix that before you do the weatherstripping.

4. I don't know of anyone who repairs the latches. I fixed one myself once by punching out the pin and replacing it with a spring tension pin. I'll bet most people just buy a new one.

[Jack A.]

Re: How to keep the weather out?

Hi Christopher,

Thanks for the great information. I really liked the advice regarding the Latch. I'm too cheap to buy another one with what I have to buy already. Appreciate the tip on the leaking Convertable top. I will check those things out.

Regards,

Jack

[Christopher R.]

Re: How to keep the weather out?

Yeah, they leak. Adjust the side windows to the hardtop, and then adjust the convertible top frame to the side windows. You may have to make some compromises. Adjust it as best you can, and then carry towels and try not to drive in the rain. See the ST12 for the adjustment procedure. Don't know for sure, but I'll bet the "Restorer" has had some articles on this over the years.

The frame over the side windows gets bent because the frame joints get stiff with age. You'll probably want to fix that. The usual Corvette parts suppliers sell rebuild kits for this purpose.