The 2002 top

[dcrichards]

I keep reading suggestions for not scaring the paint when removing/putting back on the hardtop. I just bought my used 02 and it appears to have a rubber molding around the bottom of the hardtop and doesn't appear that it would be possible to scrap the paint??? Did the previous owner (a dealer) have something done to the top? ALso, I have a hoist for removal. Thanks.

[ThunderBubba]

Re: The 2002 top

David -- The problem of scratching occurs when foreign material such as sand gets between the hard top and the sail panel. The rubber you are describing is probably the original one that comes with the top. Although some people have added foam weatherstriping as additional protection. But that is usually applied to the sail panel. There are mylar strips available to put on the sail panel for added protection.

[Ol'Dave]

Re: The 2002 top

Also, that rubber padding should be regularly (every time you remove the top, and re install it) treated with Silicone. Remember, it is one solid top (weighing in at 85 lbs.) that sits on three separate surfaces. Sail Panel, and both rear fenders. So there is movement. Foam, Mylar, Chrome strips, are all helpful additives to place between the contact surfaces and the HardTop. It was not until late in the run of the 02's that FORD recognized this proble. And it was the Members of THIS SITE, that was the grass root movement, that led to both the improved rubber on the 03-05 models as well as the improved Mylar Kit's, that FORD has since offered T-Bird owners.

[fums6]

Re: The 2002 top

Check with your local ford dealer and see if they can get you some of the transparent strips that go on the front edge of the sail panel. They are not very heavy and usually only last for one season but they do work. As I remember there were 3 sets in a pack.

[00mustng]

Re: The 2002 top

.....the flexing will become apparent as you drive it....I've driven mine, top on, for six winters...and never worried about the chaffing...I'm careful about clean surfaces during the procedure. Some chaffing has taken place, but not enough to fret over and is no different now than the first time I took the top off....Maybe it's the colour (yellow)...When I take the top off, I give the area a buff....works for me!

[jdstar]

Re: The 2002 top

I purchased the Ford mylar kit, cost was $165. The parts manager thought it was too much and gave it to me at cost.

[Ol'Dave]

Re: The 2002 top

I purchased the Ford mylar kit, cost was $165. The parts manager thought it was too much and gave it to me at cost.

WOW!!! When FORD finally came out with the "Kit", they tried to charge us $85 for them. BUT, through the tenasity of TBN Member's here, we were able to get them for FREE, as a Warranty Fix. All we had to do, was produce the old mylar strips in return. Guess they figured out a way to make up for that.