Hardtop Headliner Replacement

[Rob Glasgow]

I want to replace the headliner in a factory hardtop on my BT7. Have removed the front pad and small side panels, but can't figure out how to remove the headliner and frame. I've been told I can pry the frame up/over the aluminum door frames, but there doesn't seem to be enough give. Do I need to remove one or both of the aluminum frames arround the door openings? If so, are they glued to the fiberglass and difficult to remove without bending? Any advice would be appreciated.

Rob

 

[Cottontop]

Rob,

You'll probably get a LOT of help on this, so I guess I'll go first.

I recently disassembled a Healey hardtop for my 100-6. While I didn't specifically try to get the top frame out without removing the trim, the top frame did not come out until I removed the all of the aluminum trim.

DO NOT just pull the aluminum trim off. It is NOT glued on, it is CRIMPED on.

There is a flange all around the edges of the hardtop. This flange is about 1/4" wide and is thicker at the outside edge than it is against the hardtop wall.

The aluminum trim is crimped onto this flange. I had to make a tool to allow me to spread this crimp before I could get the aluminum trim off of the fiberglass top.

Because I am instlling A/C in my car and am not looking for originality, I am going to spray the inside of the top with a thick layer of expanding foam. Then I'll contour the foam with a sanding block and apply some peel & stick headliner material.

I am also installing an interior light with swivel spots reading lights.

If I can help any more, just hollar.

Tim