Quote:
Originally Posted by toddc
So I gather that the latches on the factory hardtop are the weak link there.
I'm trying to decide if a simplified version of the latch mechanism for the soft top may be the solution to keep things buckled down at speed and not have to run 8mm bolts up through the outer locations in the front...
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Designing and making a latch based on the soft top latches would be ideal.
You would need 2 different styles due to the roller type latches that came out in the mid 1980's.
Perhaps a bolt in design would be the easiest fo you to make as it will work on all the model years.
The Factory hard top system works great for mine as the latches are in good condition. I purchased the proper interior frame pieces for it to latch to, and it's very solid in there now.
I don't think the top ever flew off at speed. Looked more like it was dropped when removing or while in storage.
If the latches begin to get weak or look like they are going to fail, I will bolt it in as Joeaksa suggested. (I don't like the idea of bolts or wing nuts sticking out through the interior windshield frame though)