1971 Hardtop Hardware

[Scott V.]

I would appreciate it if someone could post a picture of the correct hardware required to secure the hardtop on my 1971. I know there are two bolts on the sides and there must be a nut for the stud in the back. I remember reading a Restorer article on the wrenches and will dig that out but don't recall seeing anything on the bolts/nuts. Thanks!

[Jim T.]

Re: 1971 Hardtop Hardware

Scott my 68's hardtop has the long studs that go through the rear deck, in addition it has a somewhat u-shaped steel bracket that then goes on the stud and is retained with a nut. This secures the rear of the hardtop to the rear deck lid. The legs on the u-shaped steel brackets are not very tall at all.

[Scott V.]

Re: 1971 Hardtop Hardware

Thanks Jim, I thought there might be more to the rear stud support than just a nut. Looks like another part added to my search list.

[Alan S.]

[Scott V.]

Re: 1971 Hardtop Hardware

Thanks Alan - appreciate the info. I know there is a ferrule in the fiberglass that the studs goes through and will use the same set-up for the washers and nut to connect mine.

[Don L.]

Re: 1971 Hardtop Hardware

Scott: you use the word "ferrule". I'm not sure if I have a clear understanding or not.

If I understand correctly, you are referring to the stainless steel escutcheon (my word ?) that dresses the drilled hole in the deck lid and where the center hold-down bolt extends through the deck. Is this right? If so, I think it's a 1/4" X 20 bolt/washer/nut combination. The escutcheon has 3 fold over tabs that secure it to the back side of the deck lid.

In addition, the hard top uses the 2 long stud/retainer/nut set up in the 2 rear corners. These studs have a nylon washer that sits against the deck lid's chrome bezel. This bezel is also shared with the soft top in the deck lid when the soft top is deployed. When using the soft top, chrome plated bullet-shaped pins secure this area to the deck lid.

Lastly, the hard top uses 2 chrome plated hex head bolts that screw through brackets in the top, then into 2 internally threaded escutcheons in the deck lid. These are located horizontally at the inside front corners of the deck lid.

In all, there are 5 points that tie the hard top to the deck lid. There are, of course, 3 clamps in the front that also tie the top to the body at the windshield frame.

Very hard for me to describe in text. I'd take some photos of the car if I could, however, my car is covered and in its winter cocoon (bag) and on the lift, fast asleep till Spring. My hard top, however, is in the basement and I can/will take photos of it if it will help you. I think all hardware but the escutcheons and the 2 horizontal hex head bolts are with my hard top, therefore, accessible. Just let me know if any photos of what I have available will help.

Good luck with your project.

[Alan S.]

Re: 1971 Hardtop Hardware

Hi Don,
I was hoping you'd see this thread when I was writing my post.
I started using the world 'ferrule' because that's what the item #12 in the AIM is called. In the detail it appears to provide a protective 'lip' for both the top and bottom of the fiberglass, plus the 'hole'.
To be truthful I'm not familiar with what it even looks like.
You can certainly be more of a help to Scott if he needs more information.
Regards,
alan

[Scott V.]

Re: 1971 Hardtop Hardware

Thanks Don, yes I was describing what you are calling the escutcheon, the chrome plated "hole" protector that the middle stud goes through. I am away from home this week and will take a look this weekend but I believe the "bullet shaped" chrome plated pins that you outline for the soft top are also on my hardtop. Another thing to check. You have also confirmed what I thought about the 2 horizontal bolts being chrome plated - it will help me identify the right ones. I should be able to have some answers this weekend - thanks again!

[Don L.]

Re: 1971 Hardtop Hardware

Hi Alan. Great to hear from you. I posted to this thread from the office today, finding my mind wandering during a mundane conf call. Interesting that GM used the word ferrule. I was away from my AIM, so was unaware. Thanks for pointing it out.

Scott, let me know if you need any photos. I'll be happy to do what I can to help.

Regards,
Don