Convertible top frame rattles

[TFichter]

My top frame rattles and I know exactly where. The problem is that the bolts that I need to tighten or lubricate will not budge. I have soaked them with WD-40. It feels like they might thread in reverse. Does anyone have an easy fix? The canvas is attached so I can't heat the frame with a torch and even a paint stripper heater might be a problem.

[18Fiatsandcounting]

I don't have an easy fix, but I think I know which bolts you're talking about. They are the ones that hold the "struts" of the top together, with a wide but shallow head. I think these bolts must have cut their own threads as they were initially screwed in at the factory, because many of them just refuse to come out. I've usually ended up grabbing the head with vise-grips and unscrewing, or even drilling them out, but then of course the bolts are destroyed. You can get new ones, or there are other options with regular bolts and various sleeves and washers.

I don't recall any of them being reverse threaded. Sorry I don't have a magic fix for your problem.

-Bryan

[TFichter]

Thank you Bryan! you are correct about which bolts are the problem bolts and you confirmed my fears. I probably will be drilling them out as you suggested if vice grips don't work. I'm planning on introducing thin nylon washers between the parts to stop the rattling.

[18Fiatsandcounting]

If you can get the old bolt(s) out without damaging the threads, AutoRicambi has new ones. See:

https://autoricambi.us

and search for "top frame bolt". They have both the 8 and 10mm versions, admittedly not especially cheap.

-Bryan

[TFichter]

Thanks Bryan...and yes they are not inexpensive but its always good to keep the car as "stock" as possible!