Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Hi all,

I'm fitting up a top frame that came with my car before I install a new softtop to it. The two side clamps don't want to line up properly with the receivers on the windshield frame though. Up until now I've been using a different top/frame which fit fine so I'm not sure why this one isn't clamping correctly. Any thoughts?
These pictures are of the passenger side clamp.

Any chance you swapped clamps side to side? They may be tweaked slightly.

You may have to loosen the top latches a bit to get them position properly. They may be just a little off and that can cause them to bind.

I switched them left to right, right to left and see no difference. I also tried the clamps from my other frame (which are the cast T style) but they fit the same.
I just removed the front bow from the frame today to clean it up to paint and noticed there's some play when the bolts that hold the frame to the bow are loosened up. Could there be enough play there to affect the side clamp fit up?

Top bow has some adjustment as does the clamp mounting to top frame. Keep all the clamps loose, make sure the bar that goes over the rear window is down (loose). Make sure the collapsible side extensions are fully extended (windshield end will drop down slightly toward the windshield). Set the clamp positions and latch - likely they will be too loose to stay latched. Tighten the latch mounting screens, put rear bar up/adjust it.... check fit and repeat until it firs the way you want. Sometimes it takes a few iterations

I got them to fit better but the right one still won't latch. It's like it doesn't get past the point where it cams over and locks. I'm adding velcro behind the clamps that can be wrapped around them when closed to help hold them shut. That should work for the time being.
Thanks everyone for the advice and suggestions.