63 Hardtop

[Harry S.]

Well my hardtop has been sitting for 17 years and it's time to restore it. I've removed all the rubber, interior molding and most of the stainless.

What is the best way to remove the exterior stainless, two pieces, above the rear window. I just can't figure a gentle way to get them off???

Thanks.....

[Edward J.]

Re: 63 Hardtop

Harry, do you have the lower and side stainless pieces removed? If so maybe the rear window can be removed, starting at one of the sides and working your way around the rubber, and then the rubber weather strip next?? This let you access the clips a little easier, sometimes the sealant used hardens and is on the stainless pieces and clips making it tough to remove the stainless. I am only guessing at this.

[Stewart L.]

Re: 63 Hardtop

you need a window clip removal tool. They are available online or any tool truck. It will allow you to release the clips that holds the moulding down and pop out the moulding. There are several clips hidden under the moulding, start at the bottom and work your way up. After you get the first one, the moulding will release a bit and the rest are a bit easier.

[Harry S.]

Re: 63 Hardtop

I found this, thought I would share it.................

http://www.stl-vettes.com/65Vette/windshield/windshield.htm

[Harry S.]

Re: 63 Hardtop

The trim removal tool works wonders. All the trim is off, the rear window and rubber are out and it's all cleaned from old caulk.

The spring clip under the keyhole bracket on both sides were all rusted. They can be replaced without removing any of the rivets. You just need to bend the heck out of the bracket, insert the new spring clip then hammer it flat again. a little black paint and it's good as new.

Now it's time to strip the top and paint it black.

Next update when I start to put it back together.

[Harry S.]

Re: 63 Hardtop

Question..... Caulk or no caulk??

I watched this video several times ----> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Teafd8jPNkg

When I took the top apart there was caulk everywhere. In the video the only location caulk is used is under the rear window seal. I spoke with Ted Kokolis several years ago. He was the owner of AutoEntec and he suggested using the caulk under all the stainless. Not as much as used during the original construction but enough to keep water out.

I'll probably drive it in the rain, in error, someday....

Thoughts????

[Harry S.]

Re: 63 Hardtop

I started to cleanup the rear window. I started with window cleaner and after it dried it had a rough texture to the touch. Not like sandpaper but not smooth.


I took 12000 grit wet sandpaper and sanded the plexiglass. When smooth to the touch I used a Clay Bar. Then Maguire's Clear Plastic Cleaner (17) ( five times) then Maguire's Clear Plastic Polish (10). I like the results.

The Clay Bar could have probably preceded the 12000 grit water sanding.

[Dan D.]

Re: 63 Hardtop

Best of luck with your restoration...You will definitely have a feeling of pride of accomplishment when you are finished. But, as a humorous aside...about 15 years ago I decided that I wanted a removable hardtop for my '72. Long story...short...after a lot of work and over 3K at then prices, I've got the best looking garage ornament a man could have. However, I've never been sorry and I wouldn't part with it. Have a great day