not really the right board, but I know we frequent this one. When I hit the switch to release the boot when lowering or raising the top, sometimes the passenger side does not release. I can hear it click, but the lock stays shut. Spring is coming, and I would like to fix it. Any ideas?

Jeremy

------------------
WE WILL MISS YOU #3
92 Z conv
5-spd B&M shifter
home-made ram air, air foil, headers, no cat, TB bypass, kevlar pads, slotted rotors, BMR panhard, alston SFC, 3.42's, Edelbrock STB, 350 in the works

 

Try to hold the button back longer. This seems to work.

 

I tried that. It goes through the cycle, and I have to pull the cord. In the rain, this might be a problem.

Jeremy

------------------
WE WILL MISS YOU #3
92 Z conv
5-spd B&M shifter
home-made ram air, air foil, headers, no cat, TB bypass, kevlar pads, slotted rotors, BMR panhard, alston SFC, 3.42's, Edelbrock STB, 350 in the works

 

Walk around to the passenger side. As you're holding the release button, push down on the tonneau above the latching mechanism. It should release.

------------------
Willie

Supercharged 1987 305 IROC-Z, Daily-Driver, Emissions-Legal.
Paxton (6-psig): 12.57 @ 111 mph.
Paxton (6-psig) & 50-hp nitrous: 12.04 @ 114 mph.
ATI D1SC (10-psig): ?

http://willie.camaro-firebird.org/

1987 "20th Anniversary Commemorative Edition" Z28 Convertible -- Super Chevy Show Class Winner, 1998.

 

is there a way to fix it? I can get it to release, but when you are by yourself, and have the top in one hand, rain coming down, it is sort of frustrating to walk around the car to release the boot.

Jeremy

------------------
WE WILL MISS YOU #3
92 Z conv
5-spd B&M shifter
home-made ram air, air foil, headers, no cat, TB bypass, kevlar pads, slotted rotors, BMR panhard, alston SFC, 3.42's, Edelbrock STB, 350 in the works

 

The hook on the tonneau cover that hooks in the latch mechanism needs an adjustment. Willie is right about pushing down on it to get it up. To remedy this, you have to unbolt the hook and put some type of spacer behind it allowing it to be down more when the cover is down, allowing it to release properly. A flat washer behind this on each of the two bolts might help return it to it's rest position, allowing it to release freely.

 

Hit the nail on the head. Give a push down and it will release. Its normal operation unless its all bent inside which may be possible. I had a hard time with that intially. Once I figured it out, piece of cake, but frustrating none the less.


------------------
1989 Camaro Convertible
dark silver w/black top
305tbi, auto, all stock
posi
Check out Phil's Rice Boy Page

 

Do you really think that's normal? I find it hard to believe that anyone would put up with this for long. That's as annoying as having to enter your car from the passenger side.
All it needs is a simple adjustment and it works like new. You don't have to reach over and push it down, it just comes right up as it should. When mine started doing that, it annoyed the **** out of me. So I just fixed it.

 

When I bought mine the passengers side would never release when hitting the button. What I found is that if you hit the button once or twice, or put a little pressure on the tonneau when you hit the switch, it'll pop right up. Doesn't really matter much in the time it adds to raise or drop the top, since if you're alone you walk around the car a minimum of three times...

------------------
Drew
The lone Thirdgenner of the Apocalypse
predatorman@hotmail.com
My Website
87 Iroc
91 Formula 14.3@98mph
91 RS Convertible
91 Firebird V6Sold
92 S10FOR SALE!
98 Grand Am GT

 

Guys, first off, I will look at the adjustment to fix it, I was just looking for a place to start. Next, I DID NOT JUST PURCHASE THIS CAR, I have had it for 3 years and it just started it last fall. Thanks for the info. I am not trying to flame anyone, I just wanted to get across that I am not new to this world of convertibles.

Jeremy

------------------
WE WILL MISS YOU #3
92 Z conv
5-spd B&M shifter
home-made ram air, air foil, headers, no cat, TB bypass, kevlar pads, slotted rotors, BMR panhard, alston SFC, 3.42's, Edelbrock STB, 350 in the works

 

Hey guys we need a convertible tech board. I've noticed we have no real spot to ask our questions concerning these cars. They get lost quickly in the body and interior and appearance b/c coupes dominate it with their posts and replies. And in order to get the info, we have to track each other down which can be difficult sometimes.

Anyone agree with me? And how could we go about starting one if we have enough support?

 

I totally agree with you, we really need a convertible tech board on here :-)

------------------
1988 Camaro IROC-Z Convertible
305 TPI with A4 Tran.
2:73 Gears
....Bone Stock and it´ll stay that way :-)

 

I suggested this long ago, and others have agreed, but we were told it wasn't necessary because the only difference is the folding top (yea, but no) and there are not a lot of us, so it wouldn't get the use that would warrant setting up another forum. I still think it would be nice.

 

That is exactly my point. There aren't a lot of us, so its practically impossible to get any help (although most of us frequent this board, were kind of using like a convertible board...thanks Drew and Willie, both convertible owners, for allowing this).

Yeah, it would be an fairly exclusive group, but the 30+ members that own them would benefit greatly and with summer on the way, there are going to be a lot more questions that we could possibly ask or answer.

 

I agree we need a seperate board for the convertibles. Us guys have no where to post convertible related questions.

 

We don't need a convertible specific board... this board is restoration and history, any problems specific to convertibles would fall under restoration... so welcome to your convertible board.

------------------
Drew
The lone Thirdgenner of the Apocalypse
predatorman@hotmail.com
My Website
87 Iroc
91 Formula 14.3@98mph
91 RS Convertible
91 Firebird V6Sold
92 S10FOR SALE!
98 Grand Am GT

 

Drew, WTF are you talking about. I can raise and lower my top while standing next to my driver's door in 10 seconds. Why in hell would you walk around it 3x, unless you were playing chinese fire drill at a red light while you were lowering your top?
...ed

 

True, I go the extra mile to make sure I don't hurt the car... I have to go to each side to release the top catches, and to fix the shoulder belts after closing the tonneau. So starting at the drivers side, thats once to the other side to get the other clip, then back to the drivers to fix the seatbelts... so at least twice... then technically the latches should be relatched when you close the tonneau...



------------------
Drew
The lone Thirdgenner of the Apocalypse
predatorman@hotmail.com
My Website
87 Iroc
91 Formula 14.3@98mph
91 RS Convertible
91 Firebird V6Sold
92 S10FOR SALE!
98 Grand Am GT

 

When you get the driver's side part up, pull it up a bit then click the button, it always releases mine.

 

Care is the key, time isn't. I take a very long time with the top as to make sure it drops correctly and goes back up properly. Longevity will increase the less stress you put on the top. The one on my car lasted 12 years and the new one I get is going to last 15 years...or long as I own the car at least, which ever comes first.

By the way, anyone put a glass rear window in theirs? I plan on paying the extra to do it, anyone that has one, do you have any problems with the top retracting?

 

I'm running the standard plastic window... when I got it someone had used a gas station squeegee on it, so I got to polish the scratches out... From the way the top folds up I don't know if glass would even work.

------------------
Drew
The lone Thirdgenner of the Apocalypse
predatorman@hotmail.com
My Website
87 Iroc
91 Formula 14.3@98mph
91 RS Convertible
91 Firebird V6Sold
92 S10FOR SALE!
98 Grand Am GT

 

It does b/c the window falls in straight (if working properly) so the window doesn't fold and crease causing it to crack etc. It requires some extra re-enforcement to lift, but the window never bends or flexes when it is being moved. It just becomes heavier to lift.

The guy I'm going to is the best in the area, and says he has a template specified to put a glass window in my car. He's does the best work I've seen although he costs the most, its well worth it, as the top is up for all but 3 months and I hate plastic windows.

 

When you have your glass window top installed, will you post photos? How about a template? I have been under the impression that you can't put glass in because of the way the top folds beneath the tonneau. I wonder if he's planning on putting on in that folds in the middle...my '92 could use a new top, but I've been holding off because I can still (sort of) see out my plastic back window. Thanks for sharing...

 

Use Zaino plastic polish and the window is a non-issue. Besides that how often do you guys drive with the top up? I did once when I was taking the car on a 3 hour road trip...

------------------
Drew
The lone Thirdgenner of the Apocalypse
predatorman@hotmail.com
My Website
87 Iroc
91 Formula 14.3@98mph
91 RS Convertible
91 Firebird V6Sold
92 S10FOR SALE!
98 Grand Am GT

 

I drive with the top up often. I don't have the option of 6 cars like you Drew . I just can't let it set. It is to fun to drive with it up or down. Besides, you have to let the kicker rest sometimes.

Jeremy

------------------
WE WILL MISS YOU #3
92 Z conv
5-spd B&M shifter
home-made ram air, air foil, headers, no cat, TB bypass, kevlar pads, slotted rotors, BMR panhard, alston SFC, 3.42's, Edelbrock STB, 350 in the works

 

Many good topics and questions in this thread!

1. I've always had to give my tonneu cover a light push on the pass. side to release.

2. A separate convertible tech board would be great!

3. I go around the car at least 3 times to fold down my top as well to make the top fold down correctly and make sure the tonneu locks nicely. This ensures me that the top is folded right. I can get it up with just one trip around though..

4. A glass window would never work on my car, the window folds about 2-3 inches down from the top.

I had a new window installed in my top right after I bought it, and the guy pretty much ruined my whole top - so I have to get a new one installed soon!! How much do you guys pay for an install..? Anyone do it themselves..?


Ken

------------------
Bright red 86 Iroc-Z Choo Choo Customs Convertible
A few free mods
ChevyKen's Camaros

Administrator @ ChevyWorld.net (Now in a BRAND NEW Design)

 

I'll post photos when its finished and I'll try to grab the template he prints out. Only problem is it will be life size and may be hard to find a way to copy it.

I'm going to finally see some money for my Cavalier so I can afford to put a real nice top on it...and some extras

WTF? why did it double post? Now I'm pissed off.

[This message has been edited by 89RagTopRS (edited February 28, 2001).]

 

ok so restoration is the place for convertible topics huh?
i would also like to put a glass window it my 88? rs convertible. im not sure if its an 88 or 89 because i just bought it. the rear window is so scratched up i cant see out it AT ALL. plus it has FOR SALE painted on it.
i dont think it folds when the top goes down,
also, is there like a patch kit for the top?
someone eithe burnt mine with a cigarette, or poked a pen through it, but the rest or the top is fine,

 

442--
Try using fabricl glue. I had a tear in mine about 1/2 in long when I bought it. Tried the glue, still holding after 3 years in Indiana.

Jeremy

------------------
WE WILL MISS YOU #3
92 Z conv
5-spd B&M shifter
home-made ram air, air foil, headers, no cat, TB bypass, kevlar pads, slotted rotors, BMR panhard, alston SFC, 3.42's, Edelbrock STB, 350 in the works

 

according a a new top dealing selling tops on ebay, not to mention jc whitney says if you get a glass window for our tops, you have to take the window out first before you put the top down. and i totally agree with a strictly convertible board. i get alot of help for my coupe, but not too much help for my convertible.

 

jmon92conv- what is that glue stuff? I've never heard of it. I too have a small tear in my canvas top, not enough to justify a new top but enough that I'd like to keep it from spreading.

As for the glass back window, if you have to remove the window in order to drop the top, forget it. It's not worth it in my mind. I'll just keep putting the plastic polish to it and hope for teh best.

 

I also researched the glass window option for my '92 Z. The problem I found is that the 91-92's operate differently than the earlier models. Mine folds about 1/4 the way down the window...

BTW, anyone know where a good place to get a new top from?

Thanks
Troy Backus
1992 Z28 Convertible

P.S. I vote for a convertible board too!!

 

I don't remember the name of it. I bought it in the sewing dept in Wal-mart. It is for glueing pillows together I think(hell, I'm a guy, I don't sew). It was cheap and easy to use.

Jeremy

------------------
WE WILL MISS YOU #3
92 Z conv
5-spd B&M shifter
home-made ram air, air foil, headers, no cat, TB bypass, kevlar pads, slotted rotors, BMR panhard, alston SFC, 3.42's, Edelbrock STB, 350 in the works

 

Hey, Jeremy, nothing wrong with doing a little sewing! Don't be embarassed. Did you make your own dress for the prom? LOL
JUST KIDDING - DON'T TAKE OFFENSE!!!!!!!

 

no offense, I just hate to let you guys think I sew. Next, I'll be cooking and cleaning

Jeremy

------------------
WE WILL MISS YOU #3
92 Z conv
5-spd B&M shifter
home-made ram air, air foil, headers, no cat, TB bypass, kevlar pads, slotted rotors, BMR panhard, alston SFC, 3.42's, Edelbrock STB, 350 in the works

 

1) I just found out we are using thei board for 'vert questions. So I will be checking in here more often now. 2) It sounds like an adjustment of the latch mechanism is needed. It isn't normal to have to push down on the tonneau to release it, (or maybe it will be the norm if too many of you let yours get out of adjustment). 3) You guys do know that a new plastic rear window can be sewn in by an auto upholstery shop right? I had mine done about 6 years ago or so and is still pretty clear. I had them repair a small hole that developed near the B-pillar. 4) I have a local San Gabriel Valley auto upholstery shop called Garza's in La Puente that is reasonable and does good work. But I realize that won't help those of you out of the area. Try these resources for a top: http://www.convertibleparts.com/_borders/FINAL3.gif
http://www.mustangparts.com/mclaren.html
A link to my car: http://www.sc3gfb.org/members/lonsal.html

 

My top cover would not release. I found there is a ground wire from my hatch pull down that leads to the tonneau cover. So in other words, the trunk must be closed before the tonneau cover release switch will work. I usually have to push slightly on the driver side and hit the button to get both side to release on my 89 RS convt. My 92 Z28 top works perfect. I am gonna replace my 89 frame at the next top swap time and replace it with a 92 top frame. I like the design better and I can put a liner in the 92 top frame, unlike the 89.

------------------
Rob P
89RSconvtZZ4TPI
Edelbrock Hi-Flow Intake
SLP Dual Cold Air Intake
1 5/8" Headers
Semi-Siamesed Runners
MSD6AL/relocated MAT/ AdjFPR/IROC frnt@rear swaybar/wonderbar/steeringbox/alum drvshaft/ Alston SFC/3:23posi disc rear/MAC LCA/H.Adams Panhard Rod/KYB struts/ shocks/
92Z28convt5spd
71Impala convt 402BB
BETTER DRIVING THRU SUPERIOR HORSEPOWER!

 

The tonneau release is just a solenoid operated catch... when you hit the button the solenoid energizes and pulls the latch as long as you hold the button down. If there is pressure on the latch, it won't release. By pushing down on one side of the tonneau cover you relieve that pressure and it'll pop free... Why mess with it if it only takes a few seconds to push down on it a little?

------------------
Drew
The lone Thirdgenner of the Apocalypse
predatorman@hotmail.com
My Website
87 Iroc
91 Formula 14.3@98mph
91 RS Convertible
91 Firebird V6Sold
92 S10FOR SALE!
98 Grand Am GT

 

That is my tinking, Drew. if I can get away with it, I would rather not deal with it. With my luck, I would really screw it up trying to adjust things, that is the norm with me. Thanks for the help, and the responses have been varied.

Jeremy

------------------
WE WILL MISS YOU #3
92 Z conv
5-spd B&M shifter
home-made ram air, air foil, headers, no cat, TB bypass, kevlar pads, slotted rotors, BMR panhard, alston SFC, 3.42's, Edelbrock STB, 350 in the works

 

Has anyone put a roof lining in an 89 convertible? I've got a black top, and in summer with the top up, you can really feel the heat through the top.

My airconditioning struggles to keep the cabin cool, (the system is new, 134a)

I am looking for ideas to take to my local upholsterly place.

 

There are no liners avail for 90 and older tops. Only the 91/92 got the liner and the 92 top is slightly different then the 91, lift assist springs and the tonneau release is on the tonneau cover, vice the console (I think 91 has the release on the console, help me out). Plus the rear shoulder belts come out of a pillar on the 92, vice being attached to the tonneau cover.
I'll replace my 89 RS convt top frame with a 92 when it's time to change the top.

------------------
Rob P
89RSconvtZZ4TPI
Edelbrock Hi-Flow Intake
SLP Dual Cold Air Intake
1 5/8" Headers
Semi-Siamesed Runners
MSD6AL/relocated MAT/ AdjFPR/IROC frnt@rear swaybar/wonderbar/steeringbox/alum drvshaft/ Alston SFC/3:23posi disc rear/MAC LCA/H.Adams Panhard Rod/KYB struts/ shocks/
92Z28convt5spd
71Impala convt 402BB
BETTER DRIVING THRU SUPERIOR HORSEPOWER!

 

My 90 Iroc Convetible has a liner.

------------------
1990 Iroc convertible,305 tpi,Black with black leather interior,lowered

 

my 91 vert has the release on the tonneau, but someone here has a 91 vert with the release in the center. Why are they different?

------------------
91 rs, convertible, K&N, Edelbrock open element cleaner, 3.73, B&M mega-shifter, goodmark cowl-induction hood,tinted windows

 

Perhaps the location changed when they started making Firebird convertibles in 91. My friends 91 Trans Am 'vert has the switch on the tonneau near the top latch release.



------------------
90 RS Convertible
http://www.sc3gfb.org/members/lonsal.html
http://www.taskerinc.com/gs3/profiles/Lon_profile.htm