My soft top sucks!

[Locobill]

My biggest issue with my 1968 2000 is the soft top. It has been a real pain to get it to lock. It looked to be in good shape, but now it has a large hole in one of the window portions. So now I am faced with several questions.

1. Where can I get a new soft top?
2. Are they difficult to install?
3. Once installed, Will a new top be easier to put up?
4. Will the front bow be usable for the new top?

Thanks,
Bill

[theunz]

1. Dean and Stan both sell tops as well as other on line companies, use google.
I just purchased a stayfast top from Stan and it looks to be of good quality and good price.
2. Was going to install today, but will be entertaining granddaughters instead , so can't give firsthand info yet. Should be tedious if you have OCD about things being crooked (it's a curse ), but if you are reasonable mechanically minded than others say not hard.
3. Yes if you do it right, see WIKI
4. Yes if it's not cracked or bent

I hope to do mine one day next week so if you don't hear any loud bad words or see any flying tools tools by the end of the week than you'll know it's not a difficult job!

[jrusso07]

There is a soft top install procedure in the Wiki here: http://www.311s.org/pmwiki-311/pmwiki.p ... TopInstall

I installed one, it wasn't hard but does take a few hours. Use the old top as a template for the grommets. New tops have to have those spots cut out. Also, do it in the sun so the top is warm and more pliable.

[Solex68]

The vinyl type top is easier to install because it has more stretch characteristics which make it more forgiving. You could just have the windows replaced by an automotive upholstery place which will save you a lot of money and grief.
As far as the latch not staying put....do you have the proper spacer between the latch and where it mounts on the bow? Is the the tab on your center latch lining up to the square hole on the center mount? I used a washer in two of the holes on the center latch to give it a tiny angle change and now mine matches up and latches perfect every time. It lo longer unclasps on its own.
Also if you do your own top, jrusso07's advice is a good one.

[jhayden]

After checking all those points mentioned by Greg (aka Solex68), check for any wear or bending on the "ears" of all three latches. Highly unusual if there isn't any, and if there is, rejoice! Then you have all the rationale you need to invest in a set of these:

http://sincitydatsuns.com/store/p124/Da ... tches.html

Superior to oem in all respects, and you can recover some of your outlay by eBaying your old, tired and pitted ones.

Soft top or hard, you'll be happy you made the investment.

Jon

[Solex68]

Those latches are a good deal. Good old stock are hard to come by as these new re manufactured ones will stay in great shape for a very long time and are very well made.

[Gregs672000]

I hate tops but sometimes they are a necessary evil. I have the bikini top, but we're considering a long term, multi-state drive and the bikini will not keep the interior dry. I still have my frame. Years ago I saw a car with a very thin and flexible appearing top material that was a lot lighter duty than my old one and not cloth... anyone know what I'm talking about? I have since sold my old top, but if someone has something very light weight and for an early car, new or used, let me know. Thanks.

[bossbob]

I'd like to see a picture of your bikini top if you have one when you get a chance

[Gregs672000]

I will send a PM of the pics I have...