Finally got around to installing my top today. What a job!!! hardest part was cleanign all the old adhesive off and removing trim pieces. Laid it on....got the top bolted to bows 2 and 3 and glued on the sides and reinstalled the weather-strip holder.

I was going to get the rear part glued down and then trim up the front and glue that in place. BUT....I could not get the the top to stick to the rear bow (#5). I used DAP adhesive cement (good on metal and fabric). But when I brushed it on the the rear bow and pressed the canvas onto it....the canvas would not stick....I had it clamped down and after a while looked to see if it was sticking. The adhesive was not even tacky.

I don't know if its because it was a little chilly outside today and the adhesive says to use at greater than 65 F. Or maybe there is a better adhesive to use.

Anyone got any tips.....As it is, the back part of the top is folded securely around the rear bow and I tucked the material in front under the locking mechanism.

I need help with this ASAP!!

 

I did not replace my own top - I had it done. I would probably do it now but I was not confident that I could do it right then...

The one thing I could add that might help is that the guy who replaced my top used a heat gun to help get the adhesive to stick... If you don't have a heat gun I'm sure you could probably do about as good with a good hot blow dryer...

Hope this helps... Let us know how you come out! Any tips you come across would be appreciated!

I have a copy of the GM service manual for installation and servicing the tops on our cars. If you need anything drop a line and I'll see what I can come up with...

Good Luck!
Speedy

 

Funny you mention it....I did try a hair-dryer....but I did not use it for long because I thought it wouldn't work. Maybe I'll try it again tomorrow....

Yes...I was a little anxious about doing this by myself. I think it should turn out ok...as long as I can get this damn canvas glued!


If nothign else, I'll call an upholstery shop who does tops and see what advice they may have.

Thanks alot, by the way.

Do they mention any particular adhesive in the manual??

 

No mention of the what glue to use in the manual.. Dangdang!

I did find this link for a howto replace a vert top

In another howto thread I found mention of two glues
Gorilla Glue - I saw this at Autozone last week... and 3M SUPER trim adhesive...

Another Link

The guys posting recommended that temperatures be at least 70 degree... You might get by by using the hair dryer if the temp is low. Don't hold me to that cuz I've not done this!

 

Matthew91-Z28,

How is the install going. Haven't heard from you. I hope things are going well!

Speedy