Convertible Top Weatherstripping

Good weatherstripping is very important for any car, but with convertibles, soft pliable rubber top seals in excellent condition, are absolutely essential to prevent water and wind leaks.

 

1) Begin by raising the top to a comfortable working position. Remove the screws at each front corner that anchor the weatherstripping to the top irons.

2) Now remove the three sections of weatherstripping on each side rail of your top. They are held in place by screws and factory adhesive. Remove the screws and pull off by hand. Use 3 M Release Agent if necessary.

3) You may find it necessary to raise or lower the top to gain access to the screws in the rear piece.

4) Next, remove the header seal (the seal against the windshield top). It is fastened with nylon pins that will tear out and have to be removed with side cutters (some models also use glue). Your new part has them installed.

5) Once all the weatherstripping is removed you must carefully clean the metal surfaces of the top irons so the new adhesive will hold firmly.

6) Starting at one corner, install the new header seal by inserting the nylon pins in their corresponding holes using firm thumb pressure.

» Note: For glued header seals refer to method in door weatherstrips, item 6A.

7) Next, install the front section rail weatherstrip on each side. Use some adhesive where they meet with the header seal.

8) Now install the remaining sections of side rail weatherstripping.

9) Close the top while the adhesive dries making sure no excess oozes out. This could cause your header seal to stick to the window frame. The job is complete.

» Note: Some adjustments may be necessary to moldings for proper fit during reassembly.