Convertible Softtop & Hardtop Issues?

[Nassau65]

I almost scratched the t top on the button to release the rear window storage compartment. For some reason it's metal? I need that suitcase.

That type of T Top storage bag is widely sold by most of the corvette suppliers stateside, would possibly be a special order for UK suppliers ??
They are also on eBay.com

 

[Nassau65]

My Oldsmobile Cutlass T-Top coupe had a beautiful factory special padded/lined box to put your tops in once removed. It was in the boot and was secured by two straps. It was tucked up on the top so once secured in place, you still had all the boot space. Stopped any damage to the tops.

 

[Roscobbc]

Thanks for the images.
Is the isolator used just to stop the battery draining or something else?

Just a guard against possible accidental or parasitic battery drain......but more importantly for fire safety - in case of electrical issue.........and I forgot a cabin mounted good quality fire extinguisher

 

[James Vette]

Yeah my t-tops fit snug next to a large fire extinguisher.

 

[sublimemike]

I have both hard and soft tops. What I can say is installing / removing the hard top with the soft top down is a P.I.A. I have a winch mechanism with a ratchet that enables me to lift the hard top or lower it from the rafters without help as long as I am careful with the last bit of lowering. As others say...mostly don't use the hard top, I think the soft tops wear better fitted rather than stuffed down in the storage area for long periods.

 

[GCorvette]

I have both hard and soft tops. What I can say is installing / removing the hard top with the soft top down is a P.I.A. I have a winch mechanism with a ratchet that enables me to lift the hard top or lower it from the rafters without help as long as I am careful with the last bit of lowering. As others say...mostly don't use the hard top, I think the soft tops wear better fitted rather than stuffed down in the storage area for long periods.

Very interesting, thank you.

 

[Nassau65]

They do say that if you have a convertible do store it with the soft top up rather than down. Not just Corvettes, but all convertibles.

 

[Nassau65]

It’s also best to lower and raise a convertible top when it’s warmed up a bit. This probably only applies to vinyl tops such as pinpoint used by most US manufacturers. Canvas and stayfast material not so.

 

[Nassau65]

It does pay to look after your top. A friend was once in a hurry to put his hardtop back on for winter on his Mercedes’ R107 560SL. I told him to let the soft top dry out, anyway he wouldn’t wait, so we lowered the soft top and fitted the hardtop. When we removed the hardtop in springtime, the soft top was horrible. Fungus, mouldy and a few rotted holes. All for probably a couple of hours wait.

 

[James Vette]

I'm gonna try making my own t-top suitcase.

 

[Nassau65]

Good on you, all they really are is a pouch/bag to put them in to stop them getting scratched. However if you want a case type one with a central divider with a carrying handle or strap, that’s a bit more difficult.
Best of luck.

 

[James Vette]

@Nassau65 I'm hoping we have an old suitcase lying around then I can put an old coat or fleece between the tops. Just trying to save a few quid.

 

[Nassau65]

Good idea.

@Nassau65 I'm hoping we have an old suitcase lying around then I can put an old coat or fleece between the tops. Just trying to save a few quid.