After having been quoted $600.00 for installation only of my BJ-7 convertible top I am attempting to figure out how to do it myself. I would appreciate any advice, documentation, or photos that can aid me in the process.

Also, I am confused whether it is the front wooden bow or the metal rail attached to it that is covered with fabric.

Thanks for any assistance.

Robert

Hey Robert,

I installed the top on a BN1 before I sold it. Actually, my girlfriend installed it and I got in the way. It came out great, but I hate putting her through that again on the BJ7, so I purchased a hardtop.

My guess would be (and someone correct me if I'm wrong)that a late model top will be more complicated to install. And a mistake is costly. I noticed Moss sells a DVD instruction video to install this model top. Might be worth the investment, then resale the DVD afterwards.

Good luck!

Charlie

I have installed tops on 4 late big healey and found that if I took my time the results were as good or better than farming it out.

The tops that I bought from Healey Surgeouns had fairly good instructions to it. (it has been a few years since I last did one , maybe 20 years)

Did my etype 3 years ago and it is tight and smooth..

Make sure you have a good heat gun or wait till the weather is HOT to install..

Best of Luck:

Pete

thanks for the reply. is there any chance that you have photos or can give me some info re installation. either on the forum or, if possible, I could call to speak directly re. the issue.

Thank you, Robert

Hey Robert,
I've been working on replacing the top on my BJ8 and have
learned many new swear words or at least used some I had
not used for awhile ! I'm having an awful time getting
the rear portion attached so it's wrinkle free. If I get
it clipped on so the wrinkles are lessened then it ends up
being too tight to cover the portion of the top frame that
mates up with the vertical portion of the side windows - if that makes sense. Send me your e-mail address and I will
forward some info that Steve Byers of the Healey Club sent
me. He's the BJ8 guru. Let me know if you've come up with
some other instructions, video, etc.
Good luck,
Mike

Robert

Sent you an e-mail, and I will be able to help

Dave.

Thanks Dave!

Could you also provide images of the rear window and attaching to rear and front bar as well as any tips/installation instructions you can provide that might be useful.

I posted your photos here


I greatly appreciate the assistance in filling in the blanks so those who want to do it themselves, or can't afford to have the job done professionally, will be aided in doing a proper job.

Robert

I also found these instructions which still leave a lot which I don't quite understand but they might be helpful to someone:

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