top removal

[ez68vet]

I HAVE A NEW TOP FOR THE '68, AND NEED TO REMOVE THE OLD ONE. IT WAS A "COMPLETE" KIT FROM CORVETTE CENTRAL. WHAT DO I NEED TO LEAVE ON THE FRAME, AND WHAT COMES OFF? I WANT TO REPAINT THE FRAME BEFORE THE TOP GOES ON. I HAVE SOMEONE THAT DOES WONDERFUL WORK TO INSTALL, SO IT'S DONE RIGHT! WEATHERSTRIPPING STAYS????
:dunno:

[fatherlarry]

I gather that you're talking about a convertible. They do sell kits to rebuild the convertible ribs....with bushings, bolts and weather stripping. They also sell factory black matching spray paint.

I would personally buy the complete kit and rebuild the frame with new weatherstripping. Rebuilding the ribs could be tricky and if it's the first one your doing, and don't know the procedures of lining up, especially when the top goes up and you need it to fit neatly around the windows, and mesh evenly with the windshield, you could have some problems. I would check with the person that is installin the top and try to work with him before taking on the task yourself. Let him check the frame out and he might be able to guide you in the right direction and he'll work with you, so you can do it yourself, and save the cost of someone else doing it. There are a number of adjustments, so when the installer fits the top, he can make it fit snuggly around the door glass and windshield. Good luck and let us know how you make out.