Removing hardtop

[Smitty_SA]

1. Bought Tbird
2. Cleaned Garage
3. Installed hoist
http://removabletops.com/index.php?category=6

My question is : How do you get the metal bracket under the lip on the back of of the hard top?

THanX for Help
Smitty

[MintTbird]

Re: Removing hardtop

Undo screws w hex wrench in front. Pull both levers forward on rear of top. Look on u tube should be a vid.... Never used a hoist but this method gives enough space for fingers....

[PaulD]

Re: Removing hardtop

My question is : How do you get the metal bracket under the lip on the back of of the hard top?

Roll up some small towels into a tight roll and put a rubber band or tape around them. Once made, keep them for future use.
When lowering or raising the top, put one roll under each corner at front and rear. That will hold top up high enough to get fingers or the bracket under the top and also will give you a place to sit the top while making any slight movement to line everything up. This will help avoid any scratches to the car during this activity.

[jayred1]

Re: Removing hardtop

I've found it tricky, too. Someone posted on my thread to put a few rolled up towels at a few points to protect it as you lower the hoist and that gives space to help get the bracket out. But getting it on when removing the hard-top is difficult. I just lift from the back corner enough to put it in place. I've also got chrome edging which helps protect the deck, but makes the gap even tighter.

Any help from others?

(Guess it was Paul with the towel idea! Thanks, again!)

[jayred1]

Re: Removing hardtop

One more thing regarding this hoist, consider adding an additional "anchor line" at either side or back. This will help keep the top from rotating if you get a strong breeze blowing through the garage. Here's thread with my install and you can see one of the anchors (I used two).
http://www.thunderbirdnest.com/forum...ad.php?t=30135

[THNDRBRD02]

Re: Removing hardtop

A few years ago there was a post on this. Once you are free at all 4 points lift one side & then turn the handle to midway between frt & rear & set the top back down, the lock pin will now prevent the top from seating on that side. Repeat on other sideTakes about 30 seconds for both.