My car was originally a hardtop but an aftermarket sunroof was put in before I got it. I would like to go back to hard top. What is invloved in the process of changing the roof panel?

Steve

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87 GT Auto: New Ignition System, New Stereo System, New Radiator. Fiero Warehouse Scorpion SideScoop. Got the stuff for inspection. Been sitting at the mechanic's for a week and still not done.
AIM: derangedsheep | email: elcodjsteveo@comcast.net
SUPPORTING MEMBER

What you want to do is really not that difficult at all, just time consuming. You have to removed the headliner and there are some bolts/screws that you have to remove. Then up by the wiper arms there are a few more bolts/nuts. Then comes the fun part, seperating the glue from the a-pillars. Just make sure you have some "spacers" that you can shove in between the roof panel and the actual a pillar, that way the glue doesn't reattach itself.

I think I remember people saying doing it on a hot day is easier, or have a heat gun by your side. I don't think I left anything out, if I did, someone here will correct me. Good luck.

Eric

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When you are separating the a pillar from the chassis, use wax paper to keep it from sticking back. It works great. If you need any help doing it, let me know and i'll stop over.

Matt

[This message has been edited by mattm (edited 01-04-2004).]

you cay theres stuff by the wiper arms. you meen the black plastic cowl thing has to be taken out? THat would be ok because i want to repaint it anyway.

Thanks for the offer Matt. When i find the roof panel, i might give you a call, or IM.

Yes, that panel will have to be removed. If I get around to doing mine before you do your's, I will post pics for you. But I don't think that will happen. First I have to get new bumpers and Archies IRM rockers. And a host of other little things. O well, in time I guess.

Eric

Yes he needs to elaborate the a little. Remove wipers, wiper cowl, washer nozzle hose, then you will see a fiberglass portion that is part of the roof bolted down. This job is really tedious and a PITA, be patient or the A pillar fiberglass section will break, especially when tying to get it away from the windshield & moulding

quote Originally posted by PURPLE REIGN: Be patient or the A pillar fiberglass section will break, especially when tying to get it away from the windshield & moulding

You don't have any personal experiance with this do you???

Sorry, I should have elaborated some, but I have never done it, just knew that I needed to dig up there until I get to the fiberglass piece. Thanks for the correction Shawn. [Honestly]

Eric

Considering I just did this, this weekend. After you unbolt all of the bolts in front by the base of the winshield, and underneath the headliner, get a long knife or something to GRADUALLY loosen the seal strip that is right next to the upper winshield frame. Work slowly and the warmer the better. Don't rush! The last one had more sealant than the other three that I have done. Pull gently, scrap or cut the sealant, pull gently, etc.... The roof is stronger (flexs less) without the sunroof option, but you can reach the sealant area more easily. Work (pull)from the lower edge of the roof (upper windshield side) also if you are able. Start in the center and work to the outside edges to help prevent cracking the A pillars. Mark

I've done this a few times. Good advise here. One small detail, the bolts along the top of the front fenders and possibly some of the 7mm screws around the wheel opening will need to be removed so the fenders can be pulled back just enough to get the roof off. If I remember right the roof panel is under the rearward most bolts of the fender.

What if I leave the A pillars intact and splice the roof about 3" down then fiberglass the A pillars?.

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Dude, If you can avoid it, do not cut the pillars. It will actually be easier to unbolt the fenders and unattach the skin than reglassing the pillars to look good again. Also, if you cut the pillars you run the risk of the repairwork cracking under new paint and weakening of the pillars. The skin does have some structural importance.

Chris

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'87 2.8v6 5spd