Convertible top question

[georgeramos]

Hi all, is it possible to remove and replace the top frame with the top installed? Im buying a really nice canvas top and the frame is in better shape than mine.

Thanks

[Anbele]

Assuming they are in the same manufacturing years bracket, I don’t see why not. It’s fastened to the car by two Allen type bolts on each side of the braces…don’t forget though to loosen and free the tensioning steel cables first. (You really want a second set of hands though to remove it—and install the new one)

[18Fiatsandcounting]

I agree with Anbele, as long as the model years are similar, you should be fine. I vaguely recall that there were some changes in the tops in the later model years that might cause an issue for your '71, but I'm guessing these are fixable. I can't remember the exact cutoff year for the changes, but I think it was late 1970s.

I currently have only one decent top (long story), and I swap this back as forth as needed between my '69 and '71. For those years, everything is the same.

-Bryan

[georgeramos]

Oh I see, this certainly gives me pause. A quick look at AR's website shows different tops from 79 to 85...

Does anyone know what the changes were and if the swap of an 85 top/frame would suit a 71 (if modified)?

Thanks

[georgeramos]

I think I understand this. Based on this reference

https://www.convertibletopguys.com/site ... rtible-top

in 79 there was a design change to the bow. The pre-79 soft tops are not compatible with the later BOW but I would "assume" both styles of bow are compatible with the windshield frame, does this make sense?

So if I swap out the frame with a top pre installed which has the later bow it should fit my 71...

[georgeramos]

Yes, the later top bows/tops will suit early cars. The incompatibility is with the soft tops themselves since there are two different shaped bows. This seems super obvious now...

thanks

[georgeramos]

OK I do have an issue happening Id like to ask about. Is there some sort of spacer that sits between the mounting flange and the body of the car? The new frame sits too close to the outside edges and the triangular windows/surround contact the body trim pieces that sit behind the doors. It seem I neglected to put something back when I re assembled the thing...

Does anyone have a diagram of the top frame and all its associated parts?

Thanks

[Zoofly]

There is a spacer on my 78. Maybe that's what you need for yours.

[georgeramos]

Thank you!