C2 hardtop restoration

[Eugene B.]

Members,
I would like to restore the optional hardtop for my '65 convertible. Clean and polish stainless trim, replace weather stripping, spray dye headliner, etc.

Has there ever been a Restorer article about refurbishing mid-year hardtops? A book or article that documents how and where to apply sealing material to prevent water leaks, etc. would be very helpful.

Thanks in advance for any information.

Regards,
Gene

[Dino L.]

Re: C2 hardtop restoration

I am not aware of an article? However it is easy to do. Being mechanically inclined with an AIM or repair manual you can easily disassemble it....but what ever you do, take hundreds of digital photos and take a piece of paper and write down the exact order in which you removed parts and then bag all your fasteners.....why because in the 2 months after you disassemble it and you source new parts and polish stainless you will forget how to assemble it.......The window needs two people and a new gasket to fit properly and easily. Remember to blackout preoperly after you paint the exterior, Do you actually drive your car in the rain? Wow I am impressed. I guess you will need that 3m dum dum sealer material then.....I left my OEM headliner in place, looks better than the aftermarket ones.....used Krlon on th einterior trim peices and resued all hardware, bought some new trim clips...Turned out great. I wish I kept the piece of paper with all the disassembly steps, but I can't find it.