Hardtop Protection Suggestions

[jerrym3]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

I don't know what I'm doing wrong, but I still have top rattles even using this product. I've checked all levers and tightening screws. Rattles mainly on driver's side. Grommet is not missing.


Alhough, it's quieter with it than without it.

[sauernote]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

Every time I've used weatherstripping, it has oozed out on the passenger side and looked BAD.

[Sandman]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

Every time I've used weatherstripping, it has oozed out on the passenger side and looked BAD.

Ralph, what size did you use? I use the 1/2" width and do not have a problem.

[redbirdsal]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

Every time I've used weatherstripping, it has oozed out on the passenger side and looked BAD.

Odd that it only happens that side....

[jerrym3]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

I noticed "oozing" of the weatherstrip after the car got really wet.

I haven't had her out in the rain (or snow) yet this year since I put the top on, so no oozing right now.

[njmiket]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

We use open cell weatherstrip from Ace hardware under $5.00. If you put it on carefully it does not squeeze out.

[jerrym3]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

"Carefully" meaning alignment?

Maybe further in towards the cockpit?

[007Cruiser]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

Yes, and use 3/8".

[jerrym3]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

I have been using 3/8.

[Rondor]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

Something like a removeable top made in mass production independent of the car has got to have the potential to rattle or squeek on ocaision I would think, since it is not a pice of the car. I can see where 2 identical cars could be totally different in that reguard. A ll in all I'm pretty amaized that mine is as quiet as it is. Yes I had an occaisional noise but thought it was in the car itsellf. Adjusting the top a little made a big difference but I get a noise occaisionally and that's fine for me It IS a convertable after all...NOT PRACTICAL, NOT EFFECIENT NOT QUIET---JUST FUN Just as rediculous as in '57

[Brad]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

Jerry, the longer the top is on the car the more it will rattle...cold weather makes it rattle more too. Do NOT try to crank the top down by adjusting it.

[tbird05cel]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

Jerry, the longer the top is on the car the more it will rattle...cold weather makes it rattle more too. Do NOT try to crank the top down by adjusting it.

Just crank up the stereo and all will be fine!!!

[jerrym3]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

You guys are right on with the cold weather comment.

But, when I put the top on, before Thanksgiving, it was not too cold...yet.

Tight as a drum for a few days, and then the rattles started.

As for loud stereo to compensate, I'm the guy with tinnitus (screeching ears, 24/7).

I panic if a police car goes by with it's siren blaring.

But, as I get older, things tend to bother me less. I'll live with the rattles.

[Brad]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

My earlier post was based on comments from a Ford VP of quality, I was driving away from Wixom with a new hardtop on my car. I had to call him and tell him how great it was that the top didn't rattle, his comment was "enjoy the quiet, the longer the top is on your car the more it will rattle".

For me 100% slilicone spray on the hardtop weatherstrip and the Ford protection strips seem to minimize the noise.

[MATBird]

Re: Hardtop Protection Suggestions

You guys are right on with the cold weather comment.
But, when I put the top on, before Thanksgiving, it was not too cold...yet.
Tight as a drum for a few days, and then the rattles started.
As for loud stereo to compensate, I'm the guy with tinnitus (screeching ears, 24/7).
I panic if a police car goes by with it's siren blaring.
But, as I get older, things tend to bother me less. I'll live with the rattles.

Jerry: I believe each HT is unique. Mine's an 02 and since 2002 it's been 0N the car more then its been OFF. Never had a rattle, never adjusted it. I put it on and take it off the same way each time.

Now I probably jinxed myself