Replacing a 1986 convertible top for the first time

[I_R_DA_ONE]

Where can I get the instructions for replacing my top??? My vette still has the original top and it's time to change it... My vette does not see the rain but the top has dry rotted... All the weatherstrip is still like new..soft and intact...
thanks

 

[SSTibet]

I am searching the internet to get you help dude. Give me some more time and I will come up with something.

 

[SSTibet]

http://corvettefever.com/howto/33283/

Check this one out. It may not be for the exact model but it may be a similar procedure for your 86.

 

[I_R_DA_ONE]

SSTIBET
I read the instructions that you mentioned...and it seemms that those instructions are mainly for a C3 corvette.....My top is a lot different then the one discribed....But that is a good set of instructions.....Measure twice then cut long...good idea
thanks

 

[vette-dude]

SSTIBET
I read the instructions that you mentioned...and it seemms that those instructions are mainly for a C3 corvette.....My top is a lot different then the one discribed....But that is a good set of instructions.....Measure twice then cut long...good idea
thanks

You probably don't want my $.02 but I will give it anyways. Have it professionally done!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you haven't done one before, they never come out right till you give up and take it to the guys that do it for a living. There are too many tricks of the trade for a home installation. Tops aren't cheap and messing up one can be a pain to say the least. If you choose to do it, Good luck!!

Randy

 

[SSTibet]

Agree with Vette-Dude... Leave it to people who do it fot their living

 

[I_R_DA_ONE]

thanks for your advice...I am smart enough to know that I don't know it all..LOL
I watched a brick layer lay bricks one time and I figured if he can lay them so can I..So I tried it....WHAT A MESS...It cost me to take down what I had done....but it was a good lesson.....I will go to a professional and have it done....What is the best brand for the price to get????
thanks
MIKE

 

[BruceBed]

Don't use a ditch digger when a brain surgeon is regquired........

 

[I_R_DA_ONE]

You are so right bruce

 

[Chucks88]

Replacing the top really isn't bad. I've never so much as sewn a new button on a shirt and I was able to do it. I have a video I can send out to you which is specifically for our C4's. Let me see If I can trace down some links with pictures that I posted over at CF.

 

[I_R_DA_ONE]

Thanks chuck

 

[Chucks88]

Sorry, didn't have any luck searchin' the archives over at CF. For some reason the year 2003 is completely erased from it.

 

[tyrel]

That's a horrible, frustrating job best left to the professionals. I tried installing a convertible top once and it turned out awful. I've worked with fabric before, doing upholstery and stuff, but the convertible top is something else, there is lots of pulling, stretching, ironing, gluing, stapling, measuring, and then when you fold it down and back up again it gets deformed. What a hassle. I finally gave up and took it to a convertible top shop.

 

[Chucks88]

Ironing?.......................Stapling?.....................Couldn't have been a C4 top