Convertible top replacement

[Mr cadillac]

Hello. Looking for some advice. I need to put a new convertible top on my 71 Eldorado the car came with a glass back window, but I have heard stories of the glass shattering. I am thinking of putting on a top without it. Any thoughts? The top would only be up for storage in the winter. Would there be a cost savings in switching over? Thanks for the input. Norman.

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

Firstly, I would advise contacting a place that has done these top replacements, and see the sort of jobs that they have done, and if you can, see if they will let you help, without hindering.

Secondly, replace everything, including the Sound Deadener, the stowage boot, and the drain, and the side pads.

Retain the glass rear window, but make sure all the retracting mechanism is in place, and working.   The main reason for glass breakage is when someone puts the top down without first making sure that the area in the trunk, under the folded roof is clear of obstructions.   Leave something big there, and the glass WILL break.

If you are going to re-use the original glass, if the bonded surrounding material looks a bit off colour, or not exactly the same, replace the whole lot.

It isn't rocket science, but it isn't impossible to do it yourself, if you follow the GM instructions, but prior knowledge is of great assistance.

Bruce.

[colinlikens]

Thanks Bruce for the very simple but important suggestion of being mindful about obstructions in the trunk.   I've read other members' posts describing the unhappy situation of a broken rear window and thus have approached use of the top cautiously without knowing anything in particular to be aware of.

[TJ Hopland]

Having the mechanism cleaned and lubricated at the same time is a good idea.   I had mine done when I had the top done last fall.   It operates much smoother now.  The shop guys said as usual what lube was left in everything was pretty much just solid chunks so it was not doing any good.  I believe several of the components are plastic so they likely need all the help they can get to survive especially as they age.