Convertible top
Yesterday I took the hard top off the '62 and raised the convertible top for the first time. It came up hard and wrinkled but doesnt look to be in terrible shape. The 20 degree weather isn't helping with the elastisity of it and the frame is in need of some lubrication. I was hoping to find some treasures in the storage under it but alas it was empty. I am still pondering if a frame off restoration is in order for this car. The more I get into it the more I think it would be wise to just lift the body and do it all the way once. I have been reading up on how to do it and what to use to do it and I bought the Noland Adams videos and workbook today. That may persuade me one way or the other. I would be interested to hear peoples Pros and Cons about this proceedure. My plan would be to build the dolly for the body, lift the body with my Kubota hooked to block and tackle on the ceiling, roll the chassis out and into the next bay, then put the body down on the dolly. I would use the lift sling designed for the '62 body. Seems to me, since I dont know 8 other people to con into lifting it for me, that the block and tackle arrangement would work ok. Only down side would be I would have to park my '59 Pontiac somewhere else. :-(
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Re: Convertible top
I used to do frame on and partial restorations, but now I only do frame off restorations on the classics. I agree that if you're going to put the time in it to restore part of the car, you might as well address all of the issues, especially those that you don't see. You'll also end up with a better finished product that is clean and in excellent condition all the way through.
As for the videos, you don't really need them. The procedure is pretty straightforward. Just take your time.
I would'nt use the Kubota. Too much power and it's unnecessary. Borrow, rent, or buy a chain hoist. Some people use an engine lift. You can take it slow and make adjustments, and you are less likely to bend or break something.
As for the 59 Pontiac, be sure that you have a protected place to keep it for at least two years. I have used those portable canvas garages in the past with decent results, and will probably be buying another one this year. They look awful beside the house but they keep rain and garbage off the cars.
Paul -
Re: Convertible top
David...I did a partial on-frame resto 35 yrs ago...Was never really satisfied...Now my son and I are doing a body off....What would your brother do ? I don't see you ever selling the 62.Comment
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Re: Convertible top
I don't know what the rest of your 62 looks like, from what the picture shows it is really nice. I would just enjoy driving it for quite some time. If you do the body off you will find to many reasons not to enjoy driving the car.Comment
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Re: Convertible top
The car is pretty good. It needs some work but it will never be a #1 car. But I dont want a #1 car, I want a driver. I'm not one to go to shows and hope for trophies. I drive my cars. The way I see it if the body comes off it will be 2011 before I drive it but that being its 50th birthday, that seems somehow appropriate. I would rather be driving it now but I want it right so that I dont have to worry about getting it and myself home. Jerry asked a good question that I hadn't really asked myself and that is "what would my brother do"? I think I have my answer.
He was a class act from head to toe. And Jerry is right, I could never sell his car. I hope to keep it in the family for as long as I can. I'll keep investigating the process and take it one step at a time.
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Re: Convertible top
David, Go to this website of fellow member/judge/all around nice guy (Joe Calcagno) rarecorvettes.com. He posted a bunch of do-it-yourself procedures that are just great. I met him at Bloomington Gold last year in a class on 62's.
JohnComment
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Re: Convertible top
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I --
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference
Choices are not always easy.
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