i know Traumadog did a write-up on replacing the convertible top fabric, but does anyone have instructions on how to change out the top (framework and all) as a complete assembly?

 

I dont think your going to find that. I have never done a 4th gen but I have done other car and a top install will vary a lot from one car to the next. Part of getting the top right is verifying body and door gaps. I would not be suprised at all to find 1/4" or even 3/8" differents from one car to the next.

If a company could figure how to do it they could just sell complete tops and you would send in your core. It would change the way rag tops are done.

 

well, i went ahead and did the top swap today. found 17 nuts securing the rearward bow to the car, 6 nuts (3 on each side) folding the framework to doorjam area, 2 cotter-pinned pins holding actuator to top frame, and 2 bolts for mounting actuators to top frame, and 2 wires for defroster. i also had to remove the rear side panels and speakers. even in the 114* Arizona heat, had everything swapped out in about 4 hrs.

 

^ So was it a used assembly or brand new that you put in? Where'd you get it from, for future reference...

 

used assembly, found it on craigslist for $250


old top (removed from car)



new (used) top, on car

 

Oh, I misunderstood. I thought you found a car with a good top and where trying to swap everything. You just swaped the frame. I had to do that on my 67 before I had the new top installed.