Getting Windows aligned... 1971 Convertible - anyone in Greensboro NC

[Mark R.]

I am very frustrated with getting my windows aligned on my 1971 convertible. I have the drivers side pretty good. The passenger side is the problem. I have install new regulators and took the tracks out and clean them.

The problem is they are still not going all the way up and when they do - they are just not fitting. I think the problem is with the convertible top and that its just too low. I have tried raising the top up more etc.. but then it closes it has a gap...

Is there anyone in the Greensboro area who is good with this type of stuff and lend me a hand. I will be willing to pay.

thanks and let me know

Mark
mroberts@triad.rr.com

[Dick W.]

Re: Getting Windows aligned... 1971 Convertible - anyone in Greensboro NC

McCain Autoglass. They are very familiar with Corvettes

[Mark R.]

Re: Getting Windows aligned... 1971 Convertible - anyone in Greensboro NC

McCain Autoglass. They are very familiar with Corvettes

They still around?? I had them do some engine work about 10 years ago on my 58 - wasnt that impressed..

But will check them out.. anyone else.

thanks

Mark

[Chuck S.]

Re: Getting Windows aligned... 1971 Convertible - anyone in Greensboro NC

The vertical position of the side windows is set by adjustable stops in the glass channels that block the regulator arm travel. If the mechanism isn't reaching the stops, then you've got another problem, but otherwise...raise the stops as necessary.

Full side glass adjustment procedure is in the AIM. In the 70 AIM, it's UPC 1, Sheet K14 for convertibles.

[Steven G.]

Re: Getting Windows aligned... 1971 Convertible - anyone in Greensboro NC

Mark, I have a 71' that has the original top, it's torn so a new one will be installed. The previous owner broke the L.H. window when closing the door, not enough top side door glass to conv. top clearance, so now it's my problem. I think the old top has shrunk to the point that adjustments are not possible, hopefully the new top with adjustments will solve this problem. Steve

[Dick W.]

Re: Getting Windows aligned... 1971 Convertible - anyone in Greensboro NC

Mark, I have a 71' that has the original top, it's torn so a new one will be installed. The previous owner broke the L.H. window when closing the door, not enough top side door glass to conv. top clearance, so now it's my problem. I think the old top has shrunk to the point that adjustments are not possible, hopefully the new top with adjustments will solve this problem. Steve

The top frame does not shrink so the glass can be adjusted to fit. Sometimes a very frustrating task but neverless is do-able

[Paul J.]

Re: Getting Windows aligned... 1971 Convertible - anyone in Greensboro NC

Call Jim Barber at CARS. They're just up the road in Belews Creek. Jim runs a full restoration shop and has done some very nice Corvettes. I'm sure his guys can help. They'll also come get the car and deliver it back to you if you don't want to drive it.

http://www.classicautomotiverestoration.com/index.php

Paul

[Steven G.]

Re: Getting Windows aligned... 1971 Convertible - anyone in Greensboro NC

Dick, I know metal top frames do not shrink !! but, when the top material does this can cause a tight fit on the frame that can be the reason the a top will not latch properly and incorrect side door glass to top clearance due to conv. top material overlaping to a point that in fact can obstruct the door from closing and if undetected can cause glass breakage when closing door. Steve

[Robert R.]

Re: Getting Windows aligned... 1971 Convertible - anyone in Greensboro NC

Mark,
Based on what has been said so far, would like to add that if you have a hardtop for your car, use that as your first guide to getting the windows set. Then have the soft top adjusted to the windows as an out of adjusted soft top could contribute to the overall problem.

[Don L.]

Re: Getting Windows aligned... 1971 Convertible - anyone in Greensboro NC

Mark, speaking from experience, the frustration on this job can be very discouraging. I too got frustrated on my first attempt. I enlisted (drafted) the help of a calm friend, budgeted a whole day for the adjustments and between the 2 of us, we got the glass/top fit to be better than when I got the car. I think we spent 3 hours getting them just right. I won't say it can't leak in a hose test, but then again, I'm not sure that when new the soft top/side glass could make that guarantee.

Anyway, the satisfaction of doing it yourself is very rewarding, especially on tough jobs like this one. Step by step instructions can be found in the chassis service manual. I don't recall seeing a mention of adjusting the top in the manual, but for me, it was neccessary. Lots of trial and error fitting, but it can be done.

Try it again before succumbing to a pro.