69 Convertible top project

[Paul Weimer <pjweimer@domain.elided>]

I posted following on Osso-Talk and got some great responses.  Wanted to
post Alfa Digest also as I have always found great response here.  Got
suggestions for Eastwood for either powder coating kit or a variety of
paints, a source for the bushings and cautions and suggestions on
disassembly and sources for bumper stops, bushings and the elastic
stuff.

Appreciate all comments, cautions and suggestions and sources.
***************
Wondered if anyone either has instructions for replacing the convertible
top on a '69 boattail, or has done one and could offer suggestions.

I received a new top from Caribou last fall and am just getting the time
to install it.  I have removed the old top, that was pretty easy.  Found
the front part of the top's frame rusty and pitted.  Got all the old
adhesive off and have dealt with the rust.  Cleaned all the adhesive
off the bows and the upright parts at rear of the side windows. Yet to
do is the rear rail, have yet to remove the inside skirting and the old
top itself from the rail.

I have the instructions that are the Car Disc CD (1750 GTV & Spider
version), but the illustrations and instructions are obviously referring
to a later model (...remove the 22 screws to remove the rail, when there
are two screws and 6 bolts on the 69).

Questions I have:
- - Suppose I should repaint the frame at this point?  Any recommendations
on paint?  Spray cans are probably the easiest for me to deal with.
- - Neoprene-based contact cement recommended in instructions.  Found that
at the local Lowe's, DAP brand.  Seems it would be a challenge to get
that front frame component in the 'pocket' of the new top if the
adhesive's instructions are followed... '...coat both pieces, let dry
30-40 minutes, carefully alignment pieces and put together...'.  For
this piece maybe coat the frame component liberally and immediate
assemble so adjustments in alignment are possible?
- - What is the proper sequence of assemble?  Attach top to rear rail with
inside skirting and bolt into place followed by dealing with the leading
edge of frame in top's pocket, and then the inside flaps to the bows and
last the pillars (uprights rear of side window)?
- - At what point should the cables be dealt with, and how much tension is
appropriate.  This model does not have the turnbuckles, simply
terminates at a bolt on rear of pillar.

Really want to do this right and love to be able to do it myself.  Or,
should I just take it to a 'top show' and have someone experienced in
these things complete the job for me?

All suggestions appreciated,
Paul Weimer
Ohio

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