Fox 88lx vert top issues

G

GoodallB

New Member

Oct 22, 2019

2

0

1

Kansas

Oct 22, 2019

#1

• Oct 22, 2019

• #1

I’m new to convertibles in general so I’m hoping this is a simple fix.
I just bought the project car, the original top and frame were shot so I got a doner from an 89GT. The install was pretty simple had them both swapped in about an hour, however when I close the top it will not straighten at the point circled in the photo. Is there adjustments that can be made, I’m at a loss right now

 

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90sickfox

Wasn't a pretty sight...and I've got big hands

SN Certified Technician

Mar 2, 2015

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Oct 22, 2019

#2

• Oct 22, 2019

• #2

Top frames aren't all the same. What year is your car....we know the donor is an 89.

We also need a pic of the issue you are talking about. Tight vinyl can cause it not to close easily. Adjustments to the frame itself can do it. A cracked frame where the riveted metal plate is will do it..... Basically....we need more pics and info.

 

G

GoodallB

New Member

Oct 22, 2019

2

0

1

Kansas

Oct 23, 2019

#3

• Oct 23, 2019

• #3

90sickfox said:

Top frames aren't all the same. What year is your car....we know the donor is an 89.

We also need a pic of the issue you are talking about. Tight vinyl can cause it not to close easily. Adjustments to the frame itself can do it. A cracked frame where the riveted metal plate is will do it..... Basically....we need more pics and info.

Click to expand...

I apologize the car is an 88lx. Does the picture not show up in this post? Any key areas to photograph for diagnosis

 

LILCBRA

I wish I didn't have all of these balls in the air

Mod Dude

Dec 6, 2005

6,547

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Corn County USA

Oct 23, 2019

#4

• Oct 23, 2019

• #4

I don't know if I can explain it well enough, but the top is coming in too close to the front of the car. It's basically overextending itself. I had the same issue a few years ago when I swapped tops in my 84. I can't help much past that since I can't remember what I did to correct it, but it'll work when you can have the back section of the top stop in the proper location.

 

90sickfox

Wasn't a pretty sight...and I've got big hands

SN Certified Technician

Mar 2, 2015

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Oct 23, 2019

#5

• Oct 23, 2019

• #5

The bolts on the sides below the quarter windows need to be adjusted to pull that section of the frame back. I have an adjustment manual somewhere but can't remember where I put it. I'll try to find it after work....if I can remamber.

 

LILCBRA

I wish I didn't have all of these balls in the air

Mod Dude

Dec 6, 2005

6,547

5,556

194

Corn County USA

Oct 23, 2019

#6

• Oct 23, 2019

• #6

Now that @90sickfox mentioned it, I think what I did was removed the bolts from that section and when I reinstalled them the mounting plate was bolted in upside down. Once I figured that out and flipped it everything worked as it was supposed to.

In this thread, the 4th pic shows the adjustment slots. The plate that the rod attaches to can bolt in one of 2 ways. Be sure that it is bolted in the correct way. If I remember right that's where my problem was.

Convertible top frame replacement help please!

I am working on an 89 GT convertible that needs a new canvas top and frame. Can anyone help me out with some info on how to do this? I am attaching some pics of the curent condition and attachment points. The car is not mine, I am only working on it to help out a service member who is...

www.stangnet.com

 

Reactions: 90sickfox

90sickfox

Wasn't a pretty sight...and I've got big hands

SN Certified Technician

Mar 2, 2015

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5,825

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Oct 23, 2019

#7

• Oct 23, 2019

• #7

No luck on finding the adjustment manual. I'll keep searching for it. We moved last year and still have some stuff in boxes.