For a '69 GS 400 convertible, any tips on putting the top down to avoid pinches/rips, particularly on the rear corners (behind the passenger windows)? Thanks. John
I've used a towel on top of the plastic window to avoid scratches. To make sure it folds correctly I stop about half way down and check the folds to make sure there are no wrinkles. - Bill
I always put the top town 3/4 of the way and then make sure everything is folding correctly before it goes down the rest of the way..
That's what I used to do (when it ran). Take it part of the way down and make sure everything is folding the right way. You should also check for little "bumps" in the top when it is up. If a staple starts working it's way out, you can catch it before it starts to tear.
Per (my) owner's manual...stop top about 2 feet from fully lowered position. Gently pull top material and pads rearward from between operating arms. Then, lower to full down position... This stops the frame from pinching and pulling on the top material, causing the infamous A-body convertible corner tears.
When the guy replaced the top on my 72 he told me that if you set the height of that rear crossmember about 3/4 inch higher it gives you enough slack that you don't have to worry about the top pulling tight against the rear hinge things (whatever they are called--where the pads are!) It's now four years later and no problems so I guess he knew what he was doing. Unless you know to look you can't tell the cross-member is set higher.
