Vinyl Top Install Questions

[GTXperience]

I am prepping the roof of the '71 Dart today in hopes of getting the vinyl top on and have a few questions that hopefully someone can help me with.

First of all, can the new vinyl top be properly installed with the front and rear windshields & clips in place? The original vinyl was all the way in the channel with the clips screwed in over the vinyl. Do the clips need top be screwed into the vinyl to hold it in place?

Second, two of the clips on the rear windshield got knackered up/broken. They are a few clips away from each other. I am assuming that the only way to replace them is to pull the glass/gasket. Otherwise, I know people have used sealer in those areas.

I am in the midst of this right now so if anyone has any pearls of wisdom to share, I would appreciate it.

TIA.

 

[RedFish]

The factory put the vynil on first then the clips and there screws went through it. Aftermarket installers dont go there. The front edge of the new vynil needs to turn down as far as possible the keep the wind out from under it.
When A clip or 2 are missing from a long straight run the stainless may lay just fine anyway.
If you do need to replace a clip or 2 you'll simply place one beside the broken one. Sounds easy ? Easy to bust the glass with a screw gun for sure. Harware vendors (like MrGs) have the clips for most models and those come with screws in some cases. You'll toss those screws and purchase a special screw. Short (#6 X3/8" I thnk), with large phillips head, a drill point and a dab of sealant all ready on it.

 

[GTXperience]

Thanks Redfish. I was looking fort someone to confirm what I was thinking. I have only installed two vinyl tops in my life and always had the glass out so this was never a question - vinyl went all the way in the channel and new clips were screwed on over it. Thanks again.