68 soft top

[Dan L.]

I am trying to reinstall the soft top on my 68 convertible. The top has been off for about 2 1/2 years while the car has undergone restoration. The top is older, perhaps 15-20 years, but is in reasonable condition. My problem is getting the top to latch - if I attach the windshield latch pins first the rear deck latches don't align. Similarly, If I attached the rear deck first the windshield pins don't align. I have tried adjusting the main hing and window pins with no success. It seems like the old vinyl has shrunk. I'm working in an unheated garaged with the current temperature around 45-50 degrees which may be part of my problem.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Dan

[Dennis O.]

Re: 68 soft top

I had the same experience with a '70 convertible I owned 20 years ago. Since then, when I put up my '68 over the winter, I store it with the soft top up. I've never had a problem since I started doing this. I think you're right about the 45 degree garage effecting this as well. If you have a black top, moving it outside (even on a sunny winter day) and letting it sit may help.

[Dan L.]

Re: 68 soft top

I managed to get the top clamped down and put a small heater in the car to warm up the vinyl. Seems to be ok now. Good suggestion about storing the car with the top up.

[Joe L.]

Re: 68 soft top

I managed to get the top clamped down and put a small heater in the car to warm up the vinyl. Seems to be ok now. Good suggestion about storing the car with the top up.

Dan------


You can also use a hand-held hair dryer to soften the vinyl.

[Jim T.]

Re: 68 soft top

What kind of heater did you put in the car? Previous post today of a man in the hospital and the loss of Corvettes because of a fire in the garage.

[Dan L.]

Re: 68 soft top

Small electric heater and I stood by while it ran for 5-10 minutes.