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Top installation was Re: Prestige Auto Trim

To: <mgs@Autox.Team.Net>
Subject: Top installation was Re: Prestige Auto Trim
From: "Dan Ray" <danray@bluegrass.net>
Date: Sat, 24 Oct 1998 10:50:49 -0500
Larry said:
SNIP
>My top came without a header rail.  I believe that is SOP.  You reuse your
old
>header rail.  No big deal.  I just put up my top frame but didn't push the
top
>bow forward.  Then snapped the top in place.  Put contact cement (I used
the 3M
>type) on the end of the top and the header rail.  Stretch tight and hold.
Your
>done except for a little trimming of the excess and installation of the
gasket.

* Don't forget the metal strip that holds the gasket in place, which will be
obvious once you're at that point. Every place I've seen says to pop-rivet
it back in, but I used screws, and had no problem getting the gasket in
place. That way any retightening or disassembly in the future is that much
easier. I didn't get the forward corners quite right and smooth like you see
in Clausager's on the header rail, so I might do a "do-over" some day. I
would HIGHLY recommend a 2nd person for the "Moment of Glue" to stand on the
other side and ensure it's centered and get the corners down over the header
rail (lesson learned there). Maybe not required if you use something less
tacky than 3M. Also, Don't forget you'll have to remove the rear deck bar
from the old top and put it into the new one. Also, be careful not to fold
the header back too far, or you'll ding and crease the windows from the back
edge being fastened to the rear deck.

>> How long did it take to install and where there any special tricks?
* Took me about 2-3 hours, taking my time, running to the store for some
screws. Tools required: Scissors, contact adhesive, screws, screwdriver,
utility knife and Beer (optional). I used velcro for the loop of fabric that
goes around the rear-most bar above the window. This way, I can undo it for
easier folding. Without fastening this "loop", the bar will slip backwards,
scratch the window and your roof will start fluttering and flapping. I also
cleaned, primered and painted the entire frame gloss black before
installation.

>I bought the fabric top, it looks great.  Dan Ray bought the vinyl and I
believe
>he is pleased.
* Yes, I'm very pleased. The BEST thing is not having to install all those
LTDs and snaps! That's the major hassle on these things.

>If you order be sure to ask about VAT.  I think that Dan Ray was charged
VAT and
>I don't think he should have been charge.
* Figured that one out. (see previous post) No VAT, about $35 for shipping
UPS and it arrived at my house in KY from England in exactly 6 days.

I'm contemplating writing an article for Skye's website on this
procedure...I was thinking about paying someone to do it, but now I realize
that would have been a waste of money.

Dan
73 B


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