Convertible Top Frame

[WaltL]

Does anyone have any idea where I can get a set of new shoulder bolts for the top frame? I've checked locally and have come up empty. The online Fiat vendors don't list them in their catalogs. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, Walt

[rlux4]

Walt, Do you have a Fastenal store in your area. What they don't have in stock they can get out of a catalogue pretty quick.

[WaltL]

No we don't have that store in this area. I went to the largest fastner store in the area, but they didn't carry metric nor could they order for me. I stopped at a local import repair facility, they checked the bolts out. I got as far as knowing the thread 8x1.25 and 6x1, but the shoulders are the difficult measurement. I may try to reuse these bolts, but the metal is soft and the slots are torn up from removal after all these years.

[rlux4]

There is a Fastenal store about a block from my shop. I'll stop by tomorrow and check out availability in case it ends up you need to get replacements. I could get them to you if it came to that.
Ron

[mbouse]

never assume that because you do not see it in the catalogue, that our standard Fiat parts suppliers do not carry what you are looking for.

instead, always assume that if it is needed for your Fiat, that they have it, and just need to go dig it out. Give them a call and ask for it. nine times outa eleven one of them has it; especially those guys like http://www.midwest124.com or http://www.fiatparts.com who also handle used parts.

if you are referring to that bolt that holds the frame to the car right behind the door, i made my own using a piece of copper tube for the shoulder, and a standard metric bolt small enough to fit inside the tube. haven't had any trouble in three years with it.

[WaltL]

Thanks Ron. There are two thread sizes, but two different shoulder depths on the 6x1. I haven't measured for the depth. Hopefully, I can do that tomorrow afternoon. Walt

[WaltL]

Mike,
I'll call the parts houses. The bolts I'm talking about are the bolts that keep the frame itself together. Walt

[CHMMX]

I need a bolt too, the one that holds the top to the car

[TJC]

I've been able to find good stainless steel bolts at my local hardware store. They actually have a big selection of metric fasteners. Have you tried going to a good (mom & pop type) hardware store in your area?

[WaltL]

I've looked locally, but this type of metric bolt is difficult to find due to the shoulder portion of it. I did locate one type of shoulder bolt at IAP for a whopping $9.40 a piece. I ordered two and will attempt to be very delicate removing the others from the frame so I can reuse after the frame is painted.