Had a new top installed about 5 years ago, but the top has slacked off a bit one one side, not a lot, but enough to be noticed. Was wondering just how much to tighten the material, or should I let the pro do this job for me? Also, wondering if anyone out there uses any kind of cleaner or plastic protectant on the vert back window? Thanks.

cap68

The top actually fastens across the front under the windshield header. at the base in the back, and along the third bow at the top of the rear window.

It's certainly possible to take the staples out and reposition the top. The staples in the front are visible (there is a stpled on trim strim which would have to be removed first.) The trim strip above the rear window folds open, the staples are under there. The back is tougher, The top staples on, then the window staples over it, and you really don't want to mess with the window.

Also, the length of the frame is adjustable between the windshield header and the second bow. If the loose side has also gotten harder to fasten, this may be all you need to do.

Be careful, this stuff is easy to screw up.

Will try the frame adjustment first. Don't have a power stapler, so would hate to use the hand spring loaded one to re-staple... just not sure how much to stretch the material? Is it a two man job?

cap68

I've done 2 tops with a hand stapler. It works. A power stapler and stainless steel staples would be better. If you don't have a Fisher body service manual, you should get one, the top mechanism and canvas intall and adjustment is covered pretty well.

Stainless steel staples are a must. Reg steel rusts in about 4-6 months.

One convertible I had, I unhooked the front latches, placed a flat 1X3 between the header and frame, then went to the rear unstapled, then started at the center rear, pulled the top and stapled. Evenly worked my way to the ends, pull & staple.

Got done, pulled out the board, latched the top and I could bounce a quarter on it as in your bunk in boot camp.

Many thanks guys for the info and heads up... will try when we get a warmer spell...no heat in the garage...but still have not heard from anyone if/how they treat the rear window with a plastic conditioner , if so which brand???

cap68

Many thanks guys for the info and heads up... will try when we get a warmer spell...no heat in the garage...but still have not heard from anyone if/how they treat the rear window with a plastic conditioner , if so which brand???

cap68
As far as to clean the rear plastic window goes..I use a product called NOVUS,it is desinged for plastic.It comes in a 2 part system,a compound and a polish.It works great and removes the haze on older tops as well as fine scratches.Also works great on plactic dash lenses and simular stuff..Google it,Iv'e had mine for years,might be available from Eastwood or locally as I don't remember where I bought it.

As far as to clean the rear plastic window goes..I use a product called NOVUS,it is desinged for plastic.It comes in a 2 part system,a compound and a polish.It works great and removes the haze on older tops as well as fine scratches.Also works great on plactic dash lenses and simular stuff..Google it,Iv'e had mine for years,might be available from Eastwood or locally as I don't remember where I bought it.
Thanks for the feedback motorcat... will have to look now and see who has this product.

capt

My local motorcycle shops carry the Novus plastic cleaner, i've used it on my harley windshield for years. great stuff!
Scott

My local motorcycle shops carry the Novus plastic cleaner, i've used it on my harley windshield for years. great stuff!
Scott
Thanks for the heads up, eh?

capt