Hard top install question

[bobc4383]

This has probably been addressed in the past but here goes anyway.

I recently installed the hardtop protection stainless steel strips from Thunderbird Concepts. With the coming of winter, do I still need to use the plastic strips (the things Ford provided) or weatherstripping when installing the top? I think the plastic strips were used to protect the finish before I installed the ss strips, but is there a requirement use them or something else now (either to prevent squeaking or to further seal the junction)?

Thanks - only had the bird for a month and really enjoy it.

Bob
Greenwood IN

[Birdlover]

Re: Hard top install question

Hi Bob,
Welcome. The stainless strips you installed will eliminate the need for the plastic tape. Your top should now fit nice and tight and there will be very little movement, if any, when you drive. We got our bird about a year and a half ago. Don't think the original owner ever took the hardtop off in the five years he owned it. He never used the plastic strips and the paint is pretty well scratched from the hardtop movement, however the stainless strips we installed cover the damaged paint.
Richard

[bobc4383]

Re: Hard top install question

Thanks for the reply and thoughts. From what I can tell, the hard top was not installed very often in it 'prior life' and had just a little scuffing (I had them install the top after I bought the car to get it home so drove it a few days that way - without the plastic strips). I did hear from Thunderbird Concepts that there might be scuffing on the ss strips, but I can live with that.

Again, I appreciate the info.

Bob