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Old 09-23-2021, 11:53 PM   #1
Robertriley
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Default How the heck to I get my top down????

My 36 Club Cabriolet came in today and I can't seem to figure out how to fold down the top. I picked up the little "Instructions for lowering and raising top" book for the Club Cabriolet and my top seems to be different. Most likely a after market top. Anyone have knowledge of these after market tops?
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Old 09-24-2021, 12:12 AM   #2
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

Without pictures, all you're likely to get is smart ass answers!
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Old 09-24-2021, 12:21 AM   #3
cas3
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

A guy walks into a bar, says "how do I get my top down"..............
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Old 09-24-2021, 12:22 AM   #4
Robertriley
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/19...b-cabriolet-3/

Here's the car.

Thanks,
Chris
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Old 09-24-2021, 01:28 AM   #5
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

Beautiful car, Chris. Your top frame is stock, the top material has been replaced. Don't try lowering the top without help, preferably experienced help. Even then, you may damage the top or injure yourself trying.


Lower the rear window to the top well.
Release the two side tensioners.
Release all button fasteners.
Release header from windshield, lift just off the pegs.
Release/remove side fingerscrews to allow the frame elbows to fold inward.
Do not proceed without help.
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Old 09-24-2021, 06:40 AM   #6
Terry,OH
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

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From your photos the top has been down before you purchased. You may want to explain the problems your having, since you have the directions. One of the difference I see is the rear window is not original but it appears to have a zipper so it should not matter
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Old 09-24-2021, 07:45 AM   #7
51 MERC-CT
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

As I recall, on an original top, undo any snaps or attachments each side of the rear lower portion of the roof.
Sitting inside the car disconnect the front latches and push up and towards the rear near the center of the bow.
( never needed two people to do the operation)
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Old 09-24-2021, 07:48 AM   #8
Kube
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

Robert, If you are expecting it to be as easy as the instructions might lead you to believe, well, don't believe them. I have a 36 roadster that I do lower the top on occasionally by myself. I am willing to bet I go from one side to the other at minimum 6 times.
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Old 09-24-2021, 08:40 AM   #9
Don Rogers
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

Robert, Is this the instruction book that you have? You don't want the one for the regular Cabriolet.
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Old 09-24-2021, 10:27 AM   #10
Bob C
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

Nice looking car. I wonder what happened to the vacuum cylinder can
on the Columbia?
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Old 09-25-2021, 10:40 AM   #11
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

Lowering the top on a convertible can be a time consuming chore. If the top has not been lowered for some time, or ever, the folds are likely random, not allowing them to fall between the top irons as the slack appears. Of course all side snaps must be released before starting. As you lower the top, place the folds as set out above so the irons will fall into place. Having someone on each side make it easier, with fewer trips around the back of the car. This all assumes that the top and pads were correctly installed, and the movable bows are free to move.
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Old 09-26-2021, 11:28 AM   #12
AnthonyG
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Default Re: How the heck to I get my top down????

First let me congratulate you on a real Beauty, love the look! As said as it sounds like you’ve not done before so get a couple guys to help, preferably one that has done before. While I do know several friends with older ragtops & i love them & had a a few they are a PIA for top take down / put up! You will get there but as with most guys I know with the older ones thru the early ‘60’s I’ll bet like me & them eventually you’ll keep in side with tops down during the season except when washed & to keep sized. Then up in the off season to keep stretched to size. I know fiberglass lift offs are available for some Early Ford roadsters ( street Rod applications). Guys I know keep the smaller ‘convertible interior covers’ to protect if rain ensues (obviously can’t drive with it) or to keep sun off interior. I have one for a late model Ride of mine. BOL with a very sharp Ride!
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