new top installation

[spotswoodspider]

Hi All,
The repairs continue...question: how hard is it to change a convertible top yourself? ( '79 spider 2000 ). I got a price for a new top from a local place of $ 695.00. To save 400.00, I would give it a try if possible. Anyone with any past experiences, good or bad??

[rlux4]

I was really kind of suprised how easy it was to change mine out. It took maybe 3-4 hours and would have been faster but it's the first time I'd ever done it, so I had some figureing and metal cleaning to do along the way. You'll need some ahesive, 3M #77 spray, or like I used, contact cement.
To take off the old one, separate the fabric from the bows and header, unscrew the rear trim cover and retainer metal channel (just above the rear seat), drill out the front corner rivets where the cable attaches to the top of the frame. and undo the back of the cable from the stand off post you'll find under the rear trim piece. Putting the new one back on is just a matter of putting it in place starting from the rear and stretching it out well so you'll have less wrinkles when it's done. Make sure it's good and warm when you do it, it's darn near impossible to do if it's not. There are two sets of flaps by the rear 1/4 window, one set has velcro to attach when the top is up, and undo when your putting the top down, the other little flaps glue to the top of the 1/4 window frame. BTW, as far as the adhesive goes, I've heard of 3M spray being used, but it seems like it would be a hassle what with the overspray, so I used the contact cement gel formula with a 1" brush and it worked great. Good luck, Ron

[mbouse]

there are several very well written step-by-step instructions floating around... i may have some available to share if you drop me an email.

with a set of instructions, and a large CLEAN work surface, and a warm day or warm garage (70 degrees F) you should be able to do nearly all of the work yourself. I found that there was really only one step that needed a second pair of hands...to be inside and outside the rear of the top at the same time.

Patience is the key. with that, i strongly recommend that you pursue this yourself.

[Danno]

To do it correctly, you also need a riveter, and will need to drill out some of the old rivets. I put my new top on then didn't rivet it on yet. I expected it to stretch a little (my cheapo top is very snug). When it get's nice and hot out I'll rivet it on. I tell you this because I'm letting you know it's possible to skip the riveting step and be ok (for a little bit). That gives you time to find a friend to borrow one from, or time to find and purchase one....

[spotswoodspider]

Thanks for the input. I think I am going to give it a go myself. I got the hazard switch yesterday so I'm going to try and tackle that this weekend. I want to get it ready for painting then focus on the roof and the interior.
Talk to you later.

[rlux4]

You may know this already, but the easiest way to get to the switch is by taking out the glove box. Unless of course your console is already out.

[spotswoodspider]

That hazard switch is a bit of a @#% to get out, even through the glove box...but mission accomplished. All directionals are working now ( gotta change 1 headlight) . Thanks all for the help.

[robmorais]

Does anyone have a step by step instructions on how to replace a top on my 82? I am a new Fiat owner and could use any help or advice people have...
Thanks

Rob
moraisr@usa.net

[pooldoctorstl]

I just did my 82 and it wasn't that bad. The only hangup I had was that the front bow was rusted and I spent a couple of hours repairing it then let the new paint dry overnight and installed the top the next day. I didn't use a rivet gun, but got some small screws and nuts (stainless) at Home Depot and it worked fine. Also got the cable at HD with crimp connectors and made them up myself. Take your time, follow the directions, and you can do it.

[spotswoodspider]

[URL=http://s247.photobucket.com/user/ftm333/media/Fiatafter2.jpg.html][img]
Getting there. Still have some interior work to do and it seems to be stalling a lot lately. Winter projects.
Happy New Year everyone.

[bonsaiwino]

Cute pinup in the background!