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Convert. Top help

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PATR8

PATR8

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I feel like I have been neglecting my friends for a long time by not having any post for so long and feel terrible as I walk past my TR8 in the garage but wow, I have been busy. I am in the process of taking my "knocking head off my engine but as I do that I need help on the new top.

i am in way over my head on installing the new top, I can not even figure out how to install the snaps. Actually, I think I could figure the rest out if I could get some guidance on the snaps. I am not usually so inept but I am looking for any help I can get, Pics are best, thanks guys
 
Darrell_Walker

Darrell_Walker

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Here is some general help on the top installation:

https://www.jclay.me/jclay/New_Hood.html

For the snaps, I've seen two kinds of tools. One is like pliers, the other is a simple cup and punch. Probably available at a fabric store, or google "snap tool" to see some options.
 
C

Cheapsnake

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I did mine several years ago and the snaps came installed on the top so can't help you there. But the one piece of advice I can give you from experience is to make sure your workspace and material is as warm as possible. Working with cold, stiff material will result in a top full of wrinkles and sags when it warms up.
 
GBRandy

GBRandy

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Darrell found the tool of choice for attachment. The pliers are the ticket.

You will want one of these to punch the holes: https://www.amazon.com/Leather-Hole...8&qid=1361327197&sr=1-1&keywords=fabric+punch

I install the top in the sun. You sweat like crazy but the warmth allows you to move and stretch the fabric / vinyl / plastic as required.

I also use two sided carpet tape on the header. It is sticky enough to allow me to close the top and see the wrinkles before screwing in the head rail.

Time frame is about 5 hours and 6 pack of Peroni :smile:
 
GBRandy

GBRandy

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Cheapsnake said:
I did mine several years ago and the snaps came installed on the top so can't help you there. But the one piece of advice I can give you from experience is to make sure your workspace and material is as warm as possible. Working with cold, stiff material will result in a top full of wrinkles and sags when it warms up.
Click to expand...

Yours had the snaps in huh? None of mine ever did. I used chalk on the frames to mark the necessary locations.
 
Darrell_Walker

Darrell_Walker

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GBRandy said:
Darrell found the tool of choice for attachment. The pliers are the ticket.
Click to expand...

BTW, I would try to buy them in person, or at least look for a "professional" set. I'm not sure how heavy the ones I linked from Amazon are, I picked up one set that was made from something slightly thicker than aluminum foil. Bent the handles on the first snap I tried! There is also one that is just two parts that fit over the jaws of your vise grips. I think those work well.

-Darrell
 
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