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Robbin top installations question

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BJ8TONY

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Hello All

I am looking for advice on installing a Robbins cloth top on my BJ8.
The main question is on the rear J-rail which attaches to the rain gutter.
Does the top cloth material come around the J-rail and get glued and metal grip clips or does the top cloth just get glued to the outside edge of the J-rail and then install the metal gripping clips.
The reason I question this because when I try bringing the top cloth material around the J-rail it seams to open the gripping clips quiet a bit so they lose some gripping strength.
My old top was the typical vinyl type and that came around the J-rail and then glued and cliped.

Thanks
 
BJ8Tony, the rear edge of the top is not glued to the rail, just secured with the clips. During installation of the top, it is necessary to do "trial and error" fitting of the rear edge by wrapping it around the lip of the rail, temporarily securing it with a few clips, then testing to see if the rail screw holes line up with those in the drain channel. If you get the top too tight at the rear, then the holes won't line up. If you get it too loose, then obviously you will have a lack of tension in the fabric. Trial and error fitting is not going to work well if you glue the rear edge to the rail.
You have to be careful with the clips because they have sharp edges that can tear the fabric. For that reason, during trial fitting, I just push the clips on enough to hold them temporarily. Using several awls to test the lining up of screw holes is helpful as well. Once you are satisfied with the fit -- not too loose and not too tight and the screw holes line up, then you can push the clips on all the way.

I have a written procedure for installing a convertible top on a BJ8. If you want it, please contact me directly at sbyers@ec.rr.com.
 
Steve,

I spent a lot of time installing my top. I learned a lot along the way.
You sir have described in detail, exactly what needs to be done.
Very well explained procedure.

Cheers,
Roger
 
Thanks for the kind words, Roger. I'm glad the procedures worked well for you.
 
Thanks for the info Steve.
I did send an e mail to you so so if you can send the written procedure that would be great
 
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