Loose Top

[Samauriwarrior]

The top to my new (to me ) toy (93 vette) seemes to vibrate and bounce around when I run over some rough roads. This weekend I took it off for the first time and checked it over. I did not see any problems. I put it back on being carefule to make sure every bolt was tight. I took it out for a spin and the darn thing still vibrates and makes noise when I run over bumps. Is there something I am missing here? I have tried to move it around and shake it but it is appears tight and solid. Anybody got any suggestions beside leave it off?

 

[tigmaned]

take some one with you on the next drive with the windows down and pull down on one side at a time, maybe that will help figure out which corner is still lose or not holding like it should?

 

[tomtom72]

I had that problem with mine. It took awhile & some mess'in around with the threaded plates to get it right; very frustrating at times but the results are worth it, peace & quiet.

If you put the rears in and lower the front almost all the way down & push up on the front bolts you can just see if the bolts are lined up with the nuts in the top. I had it about 1/4" from being down & looked in with a flashlight & saw which way I had to adjust the nut plates. It did take a few trys, so plan on about an hour to get it perfect. That was what was causing my rattle problems over rough roads. The screws were missing by just enough & they wouldn't stay tight.

Tom

 

[Dougs91]

Places like Mid-America,Corvette Central,etc. sell felt/foam strips that may help if yours are in bad shape,just a thought

 

[Robertwav1]

I had that problem with mine. It took awhile & some mess'in around with the threaded plates to get it right; very frustrating at times but the results are worth it, peace & quiet.

If you put the rears in and lower the front almost all the way down & push up on the front bolts you can just see if the bolts are lined up with the nuts in the top. I had it about 1/4" from being down & looked in with a flashlight & saw which way I had to adjust the nut plates. It did take a few trys, so plan on about an hour to get it perfect. That was what was causing my rattle problems over rough roads. The screws were missing by just enough & they wouldn't stay tight.

Tom

Replaced a top on mine from another car. It had to be adjusted. Like Tom said it takes a few tries but it can be rattle free. I left the nut plates just slightly snug so they would move when I tried to line up the holes.....took the top off and tightened them.

 

[Vettelt193]

Those plates shouldn't be loose either... They loosen up over time and then the top won't really be fully tight.

 

[Samauriwarrior]

Thanks every one for the advice. I will give it another try this weekend.

 

[Samauriwarrior]

I worked on the top this weekend and was able to identify the rattle. It seems there is a bushing in the top rear bolts that was loose. I was able to tighten them and the rattle stopped. Thanks to all who provdied advise and suggestions.