Installing a new top

[BartusCompater]

Just received a new top from IAP in the mail and promptly ripped the old one off.

• The front header bow (the one that costs $300+ from IAP) is thoroughly rusted (no holes, but the edges are rough).
  
  One of the latches that tightens the frame down has a stuck screw (is there supposed to be a lock nut in there)?
  
  I'm not sure what sort of adhesive to install the new one with.

Advice?

[So Cal Mark]

I use 3M weatherstrip adhesive

[rlux4]

I don't recall them being a lock nuts when I did mine. It is like a captive nut, but has some movement to allow for adjustment.
Ron

[BartusCompater]

I was able to get the other three out so I didn't really think it would be a lock nut. I'm a little baffled but maybe some lube will help and I won't have to drill anything.

I'll go pick up some of that adhesive Mark, thanks!

[BartusCompater]

There are some very basic instructions on how to install the top on IAP.com, are there any instructions I can find elsewhere that would guide me through it a little more thoroughly?

[So Cal Mark]

I believe Chris Obert has instructions on his site at fiatplus. If you do a search on this site it should come up

[htchevyii]

http://www.fiatplus.com/members/tech200.htm

[BartusCompater]

Thanks!

[mbouse]

the long version of Obert's instructions is a great tool. I prefer to pass those out. there's a shorter version in his book that isn't as good. I am glad to see he still has the long version available.

i've a small collection of additional pictures that help describe some of the steps a little better. if you'd like to see those as well, send me an email at mbouse at chartermi dot net.

make sure you have a clean area large enough to spread your new top flat! and sunny days are better than in the shade.

[pope]

Was the front header bow not painted, or was it just primered. Maybe it had to be painted once you get it like all their other metal body parts. Mine is a 29 years old original and in perfect condition. Not sure how that happenened and I am sure it is frustrating.

[Zamise]

I just put a top on my spider. Came here to look to see where the wire cable goes exactly. I think I got it but I'm just not sure where it attaches up front and what exactly it runs through in the back. Some of the instructions I've read have totally left out where they hook to or bolt on in the front and I still don't get what the clip above the rear side window is for.

Also, I installed mine a little dif than what I read in the instructions in this thread. Thanks by the way for them, I printed them out to see what I might have did wrong. I put the back on first then flopped it over and screwed the front down tight. I've also not glued any of the cross bar flaps down yet, so I can adjust it here and there to make sure its perfect. The screw holes on the front rim were a biscut eater to find until, I got some help, holding it in place use something like a nail or sharp hole punch through the tarp first and dig around to align all the holes up with plastic trim, then screw it in.

If that helps anyone else, or have any advice for me or on exactly where the wires go front and back, your welcome and thanks.

Zam

[BartusCompater]

The process of putting the new top on is going to take a while at least, and I've been stewing on how difficult it will be in relation to how much that top cost me.

Because you have to glue these things on you really only get one chance to get it on right I guess. Additionally, installing it yourself voids the warranty on the top. So lately I've been considering just bringing it to an upholstery place so that I know it's done right.

Am I overestimating how difficult it's going to be or could this be a smart decision?

[mbouse]

i was less certain of what i was doing when i helped someone put his top on, than when i put my own on.

getting COMPETENT assistance is a major plus. competent in that he/she will take instruction from you without question, but still has a sense of mechanical skills to draw from.

yes, the vinyl will react very quickly to the cement; working time is not the greatest. you gotta be sure before you apply the glue. and, do not underestimate the power of sunlight. it is invaluable at stretching the vinyl.

however, a Spider top (as far as tops go) is fairly straightforward. if you are confident in your ability to follow those instructions, it is a simple process.

getta helper! at least if something goes wrong, you have someone else to blame.

[htchevyii]

I just did my second one and it is pretty straightforward, if you take your time. Make sure your top frame is adjusted good before you start. I think the front is the hardest, make sure you get the frt. edge where you want it before making holes. As far as gluing goes, the top is pretty much installed at that point, so you can't really mess it up. Although I never really did figure out how it's supposed to glue to the quarter windows, it someone has a pic of that I'd like to see it.