Tbird soft top adjustment


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By CK - 11 Years Ago
Guys i need some help adjusting the soft top on my 55' Tbird.
Is there ment to be any spring in its pop or is it from factory a lumber-some task to open and close.

The main problem is that it is sitting up on the right hand side. I had the cover replaced professionally and this problem begun at this point, which the trimmers are willing to alter. Though I would like to know what has caused this and how to amend it?
I suspect the cover has been applied to tight and hope this can be relieved. Yet what is with the adjustments at the base?  
 
By NoShortcuts - 11 Years Ago
CK, I would recommend that you make contact with Classic Auto Supply Company, Inc. in Coshocton, Ohio.

They've produced a series of videos to assist hobbyists in various aspects of maintenance and restoration of '55-'57 'Birds.  Their DVD titled, 'Recovering the soft top'  is part no. CV1 and is priced at $19.95 plus shipping.

CASCO has been dealing with '55-'57 'Birds for 45 years, initially in parts supply, today in reproduction part production, vehicle maintenance, AND full vehicle restoration projects.  It's a second generation operation now with Bill and Sue Brown's son Jim and daughter-in-law Betsy running things.  They have 14 employees as of last year.

Their Internet website is www.classictbird.com
Their email address is casco@classictbird.com

Their phone number for international orders is 740-622-8561
Their FAX number for international orders is 740-622-5151
Their email address for sales is sales@classictbird.com 

I've always been very satisfied with any purchases I've made from this business and their handling of orders.  Those that I've recommended this business to have always reported that they were happy with their dealing with them as well.

Hope this helps.  Smile
By paul2748 - 11 Years Ago
The top on early TBirds are a pain.  They are difficult to handle by one person although it can be done.  There is no spring to pop it, everything has to be done manually.  In putting up the top, I have found that it is better to set the back in place and then do the front.

As far as the your question about the "base", I assume you mean at the back.  Tightness is determined by the two pins that go into the holes in the deck.  They are adjustable, you have to look at them to determine how it is done.  If I remember correctly, there is a set screw which holds them from turning.  You can't get these too tight because you may break the pin that holds the handle to the pins.  It more a feel thing. If your troubles started with the new top, it seems to me the upholsterer is the one to set it right.


CK (4/7/2014)
Guys i need some help adjusting the soft top on my 55' Tbird.
Is there ment to be any spring in its pop or is it from factory a lumber-some task to open and close.

The main problem is that it is sitting up on the right hand side. I had the cover replaced professionally and this problem begun at this point, which the trimmers are willing to alter. Though I would like to know what has caused this and how to amend it?
I suspect the cover has been applied to tight and hope this can be relieved. Yet what is with the adjustments at the base?  
 
By Beep - 11 Years Ago
I am about to install a new top on my 57 as soon as it gets here. I also purchased the video. I hope to heaven it ain't too freaking hard.

I do know that with past rag tops I have changed out, it is critical to remove your old canvas carefully. Once off, put the frame work back on the car without any cover. Correct any bends, losse connections, missfit corners etc first. There will be plenty. Rag tops shrink over time and warp the frame to fit. Once you have the framework properly seated, then add the new canvas. I'll bet it will fit if your canvas maker was any good.