CRG Discussion Forum
Camaro Research Group Discussion => Originality => Topic started by: bowtie68iho on October 20, 2020, 05:41:32 PM
-
I bought this used convertible top bow "wedge" from Larry Christiansen many years ago to put on my Legends Class 68 Camaro RS/SS convertible. I never asked him about the part, just installed it per Larry's recommendation. Fast forward to today. I plan on having a draftsman draw a blueprint of it so one of the aftermarket parts places can reproduce it. However, I never found out its part number, group number, or description from Larry. I just sent him an e-mail inquiring as to its details. In the meantime, I wanted to ask CRG members if they have any details about the part. Two of the photos attached are of the part installed on original cars, the remaining two photos are of the cleaned part that I bought from Larry just before being installed on my car. The part requires two forged (not commercial flat-head) tacks...they resemble miniature railroad spikes.
-
The Body By Fisher Service manual has pretty good details in the "Folding Top" section, so maybe check for it there. I don't recall those on my 67 but it's undergoing restoration so can't check.
-
Those weren't on my 67 Vert when I disassembled the original top.
-
I also do not have that part on my 67 top.
-
I have not seen them on any 69 vert I have or have seen. What do you think it's function is?
-
Not on the 69 Convertibles. Used on the 67 convertibles. My Pace Car had one since it had the original part. I do not know if it was changed out in 1968. For those with 67 convertibles, check the date code on the rear plastic window. If not dated right, then the top was replaced. There are a couple of other giveaways
-
My 05B 67 convertible didn't have it when I replaced the original top in the early 80's.
What are the other giveaways you mention?
Mike
-
Group 14.090, P/N 7650041 Spacer, Center (#8 below)
Used on the 67-69 Camaro. A similar part (different part numbers) were also used on the Chevelle, Corvair and full size cars because of the weight of the top. The Corvette didn't use one since the top was much lighter.
(Note that the drawing shows the Chevelle version, but they all looked similar.)
Ed
-
Ed,
Could that have been on manual tops to grab? Mine has power and I don't recall seeing that piece.
Mike
-
Could that have been on manual tops to grab? Mine has power and I don't recall seeing that piece.
No, if it was for manual tops only, it would state that in the P&A.
Ed
-
Not on the 69 Convertibles. Used on the 67 convertibles. My Pace Car had one since it had the original part. I do not know if it was changed out in 1968. For those with 67 convertibles, check the date code on the rear plastic window. If not dated right, then the top was replaced. There are a couple of other giveaways
Like I said wasn't on my original top January build vert. No shadow even if it was there at factory.
-
I wonder if that could be scanned and reproduced with a 3-D printer? I was looking into having a missing fold-down rear seat, top trim piece, end cap reproduced this summer, but gave up.
-
Thanks, for the great diagram and reference, Ed! I just looked in a parts and accessories manual in Group 14.090 for the #7650041 center spacer and noticed that 67-69 Camaro convertibles also required TWO corner spacers #7644550. Can you post a photo or diagram of a corner spacer too?
- Bernie
-
...67-69 Camaro convertibles also required TWO corner spacers #7644550. Can you post a photo or diagram of a corner spacer too?
That's an easy one. They're being reproduced (see below).
Ed
-
They look fairly accurate too although I don't have one compare side by side.
Here is a pic of an original. By the way if anybody has one in similar condition as the one in my pic PM me with price.
-
A resurrection for this thread. This is from my friend Lee’s unrestored 67. My parts book also shows 67-69 use as Bert stated. It appears I will soon have an original to have 3d printed. The ones on my 68 are long gone, so another small detail to add.