Hardtop install

[007161947]

For those of us who cannot view the Thunderbird hardtop install cd that came with the car when it was new here is a link that has the same information. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_gHCSxzF6w

[Rondor]

Re: Hardtop install

The guys doing the hardtop removal on the black one was real entertainment. They obviously got an ASC award for the video.

[007Cruiser]

Re: Hardtop install

The guys doing the hardtop removal on the black one was real entertainment. They obviously got an ASC award for the video.

[FEsTbird]

Re: Hardtop install

A few key step are left out. Carefully clean the edge around where the convertible top will set and wax it with spray wax. Then apply the protective strips as directed in their kit. OR, apply the metal strips, if you choose that approach. If your car has already had the metal strips applied, clean and wax them prior to placing the top on the car. I also apply a layer of silicone grease to the rubber gasket on the top (where it rests on the car). This grease act to reduce (eliminate) any rubbing noise.

[kenchestnut101]

Re: Hardtop install

where do i get the strips?

[007161947]

Re: Hardtop install

Ken the strips from Ford are not that great, please reply to my PM Earl

[tenger55]

Re: Hardtop install

Hey Ken,
Welcome to the nest. I am the second owner of a 03 torch red bird with the removable hard top. It's my understanding that Ford supplied protective tape when the car was newly purchased at that could be applied to prevent rubbing of the hardtop once it's afixed to the car. Without the "tape," the hardtop would wear the paint where it touches the car. This tape wasn't included nor applied to my car when I bought it in 2014. Reading various threads on the Nest led me to do some research. I came across a product called Xpel paint protection. It's a "permanent" clear film that is invisible and accomplishes the same thing that the tape is supposed to do. Comes with a 10 year warranty. So far I've been very pleased. Cost was reasonable - 127.57. Had an approved/certified tinting company apply the film. They did an excellent job. Took an afternoon.

[Rondor]

Re: Hardtop install

FE is absolutely correct; especially about silicone grease on the gasket. That extends the life if the rubber and eliminates the squeaking of the hardtop.

[wcoates]

Re: Hardtop install

from Corvette days, this took all the squeaks out of the hardtop.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krytox

[Sierra977]

Re: Hardtop install

from Corvette days, this took all the squeaks out of the hardtop.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krytox

Which Krytox? Krytox KSP 205 appears to be a reasonable choice but there are several choices. And why is it so expensive?

[wcoates]

Re: Hardtop install

GPL205

Have no idea why expensive. Years ago an Allante club member would do an annual group buy which brought cost down significantly. Said in the event of a nuclear problem all that would remain were cockroaches and krytox. Just searched for the tube that is probably 10 years old and it is as fresh as new.

[FEsTbird]

Re: Hardtop install

My tube of the similar Ford product crapped out (broken plastic) so I transferred the silicone grease to a baby food type jar/bottle. It was about 11 years old and much repaired with tape. I think I will have 2-3 years left. I hope at least 2, that would use up all my plastic strips.