69Charger

We are just beginning the project but one of the first things I noticed is the rattle inside the T-Tops. It sounds like there are several small pieces of gravel inside the tops. The inner panel popped off easily enough but the gravel is further inside. There are a few bolts like the ones holding the inner chrome tabs but they don't loosen anything. I need to separate the two halves or at least create an opening to shake the gravel out. Has anyone done this before>

A10pilot

I have the same rattles on my 69 and it was noticeable on my 73 as well. Probably remains of rivets
but not sure and haven't tried to fix the problem either.

ignatz

I was able to shake everything out through the existing holes. I don't remember now, but they have to be the remnants of the rivets holding the nylon fasteners. I don't recall them rattling around while driving but these are definitely one more thing that could.

Kidster71

If someone ever replaced the weather-stripping, when you remove the old weather-stripping, some of the old nylon pushpins can break off and fall inside the T-Top channel and will rattle around and make noise.
As well, the riveted nut holders that secure the weather-stripping channel, sometimes rusts away and the pieces fall in the T-Top channel and will rattle around and make noise.

What I've read on CF as well as in this Motortrend article below is that you drill a hole, remove all the pieces and then put in a plug, its brilliant!

https://www.motortrend.com/features/...orvette-t-top/

Cheers,
Richard

CraigH

Existing holes can work but I ended up drilling a hole in each top and shaking all the parts out then filled it with a grommet

MikeP

Where can I obtain the bolts that are used securing the tab that engages the T-tops to the center post. When they restored my 69 T-tops they used washers to shim the Tab/bayonet to help level the T-top to rear section of the roof. I need to use longer bolts to allow me to shim the T-top a little higher to level it out with the rear roof section. This will also allow me to address the rattle of these tops also.
v/r
Mike P.

Kidster71

Are your nylon inserts warn that the tabs slide into? These are available and easy to replace.

Rowdy Rat

You’re a lot more patient than I am Craig! No way I’d try to get those weatherstrip ends out of holes that small. I drilled a two inch hole on an inside raised area… Everything is hidden when the t-top trim is in place, so it really doesn’t matter much. Those nylon tips came right out, no problem.

I give you credit though… That’s dedication and perseverance! Doesn’t surprise me though, I’ve seen your restoration efforts. Always first class work!

Regards,

Stan Falenski

corvette74

Here's a pic of the inside of one of my tops. Gives you an idea of what's all in there.