I'm trying to help my son replace some old t-tops in his 92 camaro. The latches are different on the the new t-tops. I was told that you could replace the things that are bolted on the frame for the tops to latch into. I have no idea what they are called, so I'm having problems finding some. Anybody know?

 

come on guys, somebody is bound to know what the name of this is.

 

You could just look around for a local you-pick junk yard and find the part you need and take it.

I assume you're talking about the part that the pin latches into? I'm not sure, but I don't believe there's a specific name.

 

The latches are no different for the pin-type t-top cars. The only difference in the tops is the way the weatherstripping mounts to the frame. The 90+ have glued on weatherstrip, and the older ones have bolted on weatherstrip. I currently have a set of tops from a 91 (verified by VIN code from junkyard sheet) on my 87. As long as the tops AREN'T hook mount, then the tops will work, but you might have to adjust the mounts. Also, I've heard of some people having trouble with their tops unlatching themselves, and I've had it happen to me (good thing I noticed it rattling or I'd have lost another $200 set of tops). Keep them locked when you're not removing them, if they have locks, just to be on the safe side.

Also, you CAN just switch over the latch mechanisms to the new tops, which is probably a good idea if you want to keep your existing locks (provided you have any).

 

I know what you speak of - the pins themselves - on the later ones (aka 1992) there were larger diameter pins - looked like they had plastic around them - on the older ones they have smaller pins, all metal looking. Ran across this when I replaced my 1992 Lexan tops with 1989 glass tops.

I have no idea what the "name" of the receivers would be that you seek - but like mentioned, just find some from a junkyard and yank them - they go in/out pretty easily with like a 7mm socket (I think) - take a 1/4 inch socket set and a phillips screwdriver with you (phillips to remove the screw in the B-pillar plastic so you can get to the receivers).