AirSpeed VW Community Forums

Project Forums => ASF Member Projects => Topic started by: Thomas on January 19, 2014, 02:23:40 PM

Title: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on January 19, 2014, 02:23:40 PM
Well here I go ..... starting to installing a rag top section in my 58 Beetle with minimal body and paint work. I'm posting this so that can I ask for advice along the way and maybe help others learn from my mistakes. I cut the rag section out of the roof clip with about 1"all the way around except of the rear part where I left more to help with the hole placements later. I started to trim away the top layer from the bottom layer as seen in the picture. This will give me something to weld against. I'm trimming it close enough so my seams will be hidden by the trim. I will post as I go along with this project.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0058_zps9cc31286.jpg&hash=0e30b1ea18c2b3a7ffba0dd5bc6b1c06f59cf2ab)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: josh on January 20, 2014, 08:30:56 PM
Cool man! It's awesome when guys document the way they do stuff and post it so the pics can help others tackle a job they might of thought they couldn't handle.....until seeing how someone else did it.

 Right on!!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on January 26, 2014, 05:34:37 PM
Well got some work done on the sunroof this weekend. I got side tracked installing a sapphire I radio and antenna on the car. I figured drilling holes for the antenna would help prep me for cutting the big hole in the roof.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0078_zpscf6577e1.jpg&hash=6c7e9219aeedd50cfb50c03281c89aa0791f586c)
Got the clip all trimmed out  and ready to start working out location.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0076_zpsec808eee.jpg&hash=60e9854ff2dc933312b09c17d8708f8878e3f2bb)
Looking for the nylon like strapping material in this picture. Does anyone know where I can pick some up?
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0080_zps0733c572.jpg&hash=3dff247724bbbd3392dcd3f86ad75d63415e6084)
I pick a colour for the roof but this has cause me to order a whole new interior to match the colour I picked for the roof. Being made for me at TMI right now.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0081_zpsb01c9fac.jpg&hash=980f87ea5545620314b1f7b70d0c2857ffcf5adb)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Jeremy on January 26, 2014, 10:34:59 PM
Looking good Thomas. Keep the updates coming.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: bwaz on January 27, 2014, 09:08:13 AM
you should just add this one to your garage Thomas ;)

http://www.vvwc.ca/modules.php?name=Forums&file=download&id=6225
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: josh on January 28, 2014, 08:16:21 PM
I just finished the 3 fold in my oval. The nylon you are asking about you can by from a fabric store...same shit as backpack straps. Although it was suggested to me to use 4" wide strips of the same material that the top is made of (called sonnetland?) A very tough fabric stayfast type with a rubber inside. Doesn't matter what it is really it just keeps the spacing between the rails even when operating roof. I'd use 1" backpack strap if I were you.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on January 30, 2014, 06:01:53 PM
Thanks Josh
I got all the assembly apart and ready for sand blasting. I managed to get it apart with only 2 broken fasteners. Even though I took pictures I was wondering if some one could direct me towards some good ligature on the assembly of the sunroof to help in the reassembly part of the job. Thanks Tom
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_01002_zpsb3ee4bf8.jpg&hash=7a8e6b9a4d2e8a10aec5d135b5ca0e7ba38ecb4b)

Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: silas on January 30, 2014, 10:08:51 PM
hey thomas…looking good, keep it up! you cutting a hole in the roof of your car = grande cojones!!! well done, it's all going to be worth it when you slide it back and go for a cruise!!  :cool:

as far as ragtop disasemble/assemble instructions…i was pretty close to certain that there was a section in the bentley manual i had for my 56, but i sold it with the car. after a quick search, it seems that it is covered in the bentley (up to '63? the years of the ragtop…all should be close to identical)…and this guy here on thesamba found scanned versions & posted what looks to be a fairly complete rendition…could use that or maybe borrow someones bentley...

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/album_search.php?search_keywords=ragtop+an+manual%27
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 01, 2014, 09:28:26 AM
Thanks Silas, that will help. I notice that I'm missing piece 49. I'm assuming it goes on the underside of the roof when bolting down the back of the top. If anyone has one kicking around let me know or worst case I'm sure I can make something.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.thesamba.com%2Fvw%2Fgallery%2Fpix%2F128580.jpg&hash=7ef39865449c0143ece7f189fa2dbe40b6a290d3)
I have to give a shout out to Langley U blast as I was down there yesterday cleaning up all the parts. Their booth are big enough to even hold the roof clip. Nice people to deal with and the shop is kickass. They are going to expand soon and will have faculties to blast large objects. I got all the parts cleaned any painted yesterday. Hoping to have all in pieces in place so I can cut the hole in the roof by the Long weekend. I'm starting to dream at night about cutting that hole in the roof (or should I be saying night terrors).
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0101_zps309d6f46.jpg&hash=8870568607526e514a5052642e9054a7143cfbb5)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: josh on February 01, 2014, 03:00:53 PM
a 2 fold is quite a bit different than the 3 fold I just did...rollers instead of sliders for example but the concept is the same
I.just studied the schematic and read the Bently and it.was.pretty straight forward. hardest part was stretching the outside cover and headliner well not hard but nerve racking cause once you punch holes.through the material there ain't no.going.bsck!!
just throw yourself into it and if and when you get stuck fire away some questions, I'll see if I can help
.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 04, 2014, 08:58:21 AM
So what is going to be the best tool for cutting the hole...jigsaw...zip cut...air shears....everything I read says something different. Looking for advice on this matter. Starting to measure it up for the weekend hole cutting. I have sent the family away for the weekend so if things go wrong I can be mad all by myself.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: 57rubindub on February 04, 2014, 12:51:06 PM
I would suggest a gager, a bottle of Jack and a tissue... youve got some pretty big cajones taking this on, Im in awe of your idea... chainsaw
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 08, 2014, 10:54:04 AM
Well tomorrow is the big day chainsaw. After a few days of trying to figure out how to transfer the information from the clip to the roof I had an idea at work last night. I work in a box plant and I thought if I built a box the same size as the out line of the inner hole I could transfer it over (some times you just got to think outside the box). It seem to work out good...well we will see tomorrow.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0105_zps8f08ae1f.jpg&hash=f959ba61b8ac7adb1200ed52a19f6848db5bb99b)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0106_zpsd886cf72.jpg&hash=9a1c764a6489184bb91c2412757e2e8aace61a6a)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0109_zpse0ae94a2.jpg&hash=1edf5b24020b29164ff409333274b2dc10856c29)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: josh on February 08, 2014, 11:01:51 AM
Nice box!  no big deal! jump in and don't look back. good call ditching th fam, smart move

ive never pulled off either but difference in doing the 2-3 fold graft is where u splice it. A 3 you peel off all the roof skin and plug weld the frame opening clamping from underside....The 2 don't you have to use some of the donor roof skin and butt weld the whole perimiter?  am i on track or way off? like I said, never done a ragtop graft.
If that is the case I'd trim donor back close so it sits flush square up and use a bunch of self tapper sheet metal screws zapped through both layers pulling down tight then take the thinnest zip wheel you can get cut through (some guys split the screws) be careful not to let disk lean or trail off making the slice wider than need be=less weld.  Some guys use one of those little air recip saws cause the blade is nice and thin and you have good control.....think I saw one of china's finest quality tools at princess auto for under $20 that might last long enough to make it 3/4 the way around your roof before the bearings implode :character0029:
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Jerome on February 08, 2014, 09:08:02 PM
With the 2 folds u do have to use the donor skin partially.  The opening is stamped as u can see in the pic.  I have a 2 fold graft in the works and am watching Thomas closely.  I am thinking of using structural adhesive to glue it to the underside of the oe skin. It will sit about 1mm lower than what it should.... But I think I can get away with that over warping the hell out of the skin from welding and then grinding welds and filling. I have a lot of experience with the structural glues at the bodshop I work at and think I can save a bunch of work possibly.... Anyone have any good reason why glueing to the underside will not work?
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: silas on February 08, 2014, 11:04:12 PM
right on Thomas! you can do it!! :rockon:
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Alisdair on February 09, 2014, 08:12:23 AM
Great to see someone else doing this. I fitted a 63 top into my 66 a few years ago.
There's one little thing I'd like to point out before you start welding in the top.
BEFORE you do any welding  but after you cut the hole in the roof you need to weld in the corner supports FIRST
 The supports on your ragtop peice have been cut !!  Very easy to make and essential you fit them otherwise you will have flex in the roof.
Have a look at this video , press pause at 20 secs. Look at the corners and where the ragtop latches...you have to fit the corners first as there's  no way to do it afterwards.
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=zfLVqIjzXdI .


Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 09, 2014, 08:31:54 AM
The roof clip that I removed the sunroof from had also been grafted in. It already had those supports cut off and I didn't notice any flex. I also was told that they were not necessary. Well will see as it would be hard for me to weld in at this point for me. Going out to measure again for the tenth time, say some prayers and see what happens.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 09, 2014, 06:42:37 PM
Here are some pictures from today.
Zinc spray weld paint as going to seam weld but will have the under skin to weld against.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0144_zpsdc350118.jpg&hash=fa5a4baeb28404d88112da6fe91e3c2608148aa8)
Hole cut with jig saw. Left about 1/4" then I used a blending disk to finish it up and yes the full interior is still in.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0147_zps152de5b7.jpg&hash=4efbb4d17ba9071c7e33bc8bfd7885aecdca7fec)
Turned out to be close with only couple spots that have a little gap.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0149_zps3fb455e6.jpg&hash=58f8cf57fdc6783bb92351e050ec067148fd2f61)
Looks like the trim should cover up the side welds.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0150_zps2ebd58e8.jpg&hash=c4d5266a7d1fe5a94b6fcb8a16f64e5acbd8b7a8)
next step will be welding one stitch at a time.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: 70's Looker on February 09, 2014, 08:06:50 PM
That's great thom! Keep going!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Jerome on February 09, 2014, 10:43:24 PM
Looking good! Keep the post coming!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 10, 2014, 06:11:53 PM
Well the roof is tacked in. Now it is time to cut a bunch of coupons and practice my welding before going any further on this project as I got no room for any mistakes on this job.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0173_zps0e712bf0.jpg&hash=847bdeb60d94ce3f0e994ae7ee8954ab68ef9351)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Jeremy on February 10, 2014, 10:47:02 PM
Looks good Thomas. The hard part is done.  :rockon: :rockon:
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 12, 2014, 07:50:16 AM
Looking at ordering the new headliner and trying to decide what style to get. I have installed a vinyl one before myself and I'm thinking of going with the Mohair. Has anyone had experience with installing one of these as I want to know if this is something I can tackle myself or should get someone to do it for me. If it is something I should have someone else do could you recommend someone. Thanks Tom
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Jeremy on February 12, 2014, 11:22:49 AM
Talk to Josh on this site. He just did one in his '55.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 15, 2014, 03:51:19 PM
Well spent a couple hours welding today. The wind was blowing away my gas so I had to build a shelter... don't know if using a flammable material was to smart but it worked.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0174_zps4e201cfb.jpg&hash=fdce95048052051476e6deccdccb4a3831730678)
Stitch welding takes patience and it was testing mine. A few more to go to fill it all in.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0175_zpsb4edae4e.jpg&hash=6ae3f904547a8205754f8fb0c22bd4ca78e417de)
So far except for one spot I have manage it keep it so I will be able to cover the sides.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0177_zpse9cb6888.jpg&hash=bc0b989d0eb13d7b95354334d8f87e2fc4c69734)
Hoping to do more tomorrow.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: josh on February 15, 2014, 03:57:08 PM
Looks great man!!!!


Talk to Josh on this site. He just did one in his '55.

true story! couple days ago I posted a big long reply but apparently it didn't stick? sorry.....headliners really ain't that tough just gotta plan everything out before cracking out the glue or scissors!  you only have one shot so make sure you have all your ducks in a row and if I can suggest one thing is wear a proper respirator when doing the gluing! gets pretty dank inside the car spraying that crap! Here's a couple tips....

-buy a $20 siphon feed gun from princess auto or kms and a couple quarts of GOOD contact cement.....advice from the pro's the aresol cans are thinned down with solvents so they spray easy.....nowhere near the holding power and will fail in the summer.
-keep sharp scissors and lots of olfa blades handy
-really take time before you slice window openings and such.....you will be surprised how the material stretches.
-go to office depot or Walmart and buy a few bags of the Black spring clips in different sizes....more the better (minimum 50)
-go easy on the glue....it WILL bleed though the cloth! The factory only glued around the edges.

I'm not sure because I've never used a "mohair" type liner (mine was a $400 wool one) but I've read that the cheap material is super easy to mess up cause the fluff on the surface rubs off if you look at it sideways! so handle as little as possible!

Good luck and if you get stuck pm me and I can try and help ya out
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 15, 2014, 04:03:56 PM
Thanks Josh. After much though I'm going with the off white vinyl. I have done a vinyl one before but I was the one piece and no sunroof. I was thinking of buying a video that is out on how to do it. Not sure how helpful it is.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: josh on February 15, 2014, 06:32:49 PM
Thanks Josh. After much though I'm going with the off white vinyl. I have done a vinyl one before but I was the one piece and no sunroof. I was thinking of buying a video that is out on how to do it. Not sure how helpful it is.

Right on, blow dryer work well to soften the vinyl up and you can load the glue on it without worry! I wouldn't bother with the vid....I considered it too but I watched that dude that made it ask a bunch of questions on how to do em on the samba then the next thing you know he's pushing videos on the same site that he got free advice on......now he's acting like some seasoned vet making money off people who were in same position as he was 6 months earlier? over reacting yeah probably but I wasn't gonna give him any of my money!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Stephan Schmidt on February 21, 2014, 08:14:49 AM
Wow, brave!  I'm sure the car will be much more enjoyable afterwards!  Keep up the good work!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Randy on February 21, 2014, 10:05:28 AM
Caution: Be careful if you are using the perforated vinyl, do not overdo the glue. It will seep out the holes and then becomes a bitch to clean off.
Guess how I know.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 23, 2014, 04:51:19 PM
Well spend 5 hours welding up the rag top. Got in primer and that is it for the day. I need to warm up or get a heater in the garage to do the body work and paint.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0181_zpsdb522d7e.jpg&hash=46d7ca793fccbafd1e8babb480f42857aeb6ee23)
Going to start making up the mechanism and cover to keep me busy in the mean time.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on February 26, 2014, 06:18:39 PM
Received my new interior from TMI today, thanks to Gary at CIP.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_00033_zpsde293a3c.jpg&hash=29e87df858596c1ef4f9613496bd3da308b7b13f)
It's a big change from the red interior but looking forward to see what it looks like.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: jim martin on February 26, 2014, 06:43:04 PM
great work love seeing someone take on a project ,especially one that can really go south damb quick .
do me a favour and keep your old carpets for me , will call you later
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: josh on February 26, 2014, 11:59:29 PM
Nice work man, that gotta feel good!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: steveo_32 on February 28, 2014, 10:06:36 PM
WoW, Looks awsome.....i changed my battery all by myself.......i lied, uncle lester helped a bit......
Totally cool dude, and looking good.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Jeremy on February 28, 2014, 10:31:41 PM
That's going to look real nice.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on March 04, 2014, 05:31:25 PM
Got a little work done on the car this weekend. I started stripping the interior out of the car. I dropped off the park brake handle with Russ today to get it powder coated.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0050_zpsc06c007d.jpg&hash=48050b359f85142623999212d8da3849d872f67a)
I laid out the sunroof parts to figure out how to put back together and what parts I'm missing.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0049_zps4711598d.jpg&hash=28bb0cf52562e0366167048c5077b1c8865b3b89)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on March 06, 2014, 06:52:15 PM
Got all the interior and windows out. Found out when I got the windows out I had a little paint issue under the rubber. I think it was just bad paint prep as paint peeling off under rubber. I was told this car was dipped which makes sense as there is no trace of colour under panels but maybe surface not prep good for paint. Got it cleaned up and just needs paint.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0006_zpscf1a6a0b.jpg&hash=98724d7e7a0aa6ed0cfec6b8aead9105298c95a8)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: bwaz on March 07, 2014, 08:57:05 AM
Looking mighty fine Thomas!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Jeremy on March 07, 2014, 09:38:30 AM
Oops. Made a comment about liking the door panels but then realized they were the old ones. They look good too. HAHA.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on March 09, 2014, 02:14:36 PM
Well I put together the sunroof together today so I could do a dry run before body work and paint. Had to guess on a few things but worked out OK. Will have to adjust a few things but happy with most of the job.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0018_zps066d2dbe.jpg&hash=05e05a1e28cba48f5eb5da16df263eeeb3f9cf40)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0020_zpse390f9dc.jpg&hash=e1605a6a0efbf2708a13990197afb36496dee7ca)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: silas on March 09, 2014, 05:12:52 PM
beauty!! looking good Thomas!!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: 57rubindub on March 10, 2014, 01:39:46 PM
well Done!!  :party1:
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on March 10, 2014, 05:12:05 PM
Found this video that help solve a couple of the questions and problems I was having.
http://www.kustomcoachwerks.com/movies/ragtop.mov
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on March 15, 2014, 01:33:35 PM
Well haven't had the weather for painting and body work yet so I have been working on the interior. My back seat and front seat bases were in rough shape so out came the zip cut and welder. I spent my Graveyard shift at work hammering things back to straight again. Luckily I have collected a few front seat bases over the last couple years so I able to make a good set out of all of them.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0031_zpsd98636b3.jpg&hash=68c2e0f0ebaf3682ca193a5acaf385a78b6fe59f)
Where I had missing upholstery hooks I made up new ones and welded them in place.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0024_zps6d29d6f4.jpg&hash=c3c1691d191392511b4f18d78c4ad55a41001281)
Got my Emergency brake back from Russ.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0028_zps77b31147.jpg&hash=294a941692427e4c534cfca3465e418b8ec27992)
 I want to install a Stereo but I'm trying to figure out a hidden location for it. Looking at mounting under the back seat. I'm also using the opportunity to rewire  some stuff that you normally can't get too. What started as a sunroof project is turning into so much more .... oh well it's only time and money.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on March 15, 2014, 01:42:38 PM
Forgot that I'm looking for some of this material for headliner padding. Can't seem to find any around Cloverdale. Does anyone know I can pick some up. Thanks Thomas
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0032_zpsfe0b20b1.jpg&hash=27affdf9cb64fcbc5e181130d858d81751313e66)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: kirin on March 15, 2014, 07:26:02 PM
I had some of that stuff come in a "Headliner padding kit" from wolfsburg west
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: HotSauce on March 16, 2014, 07:55:22 AM
It's called jute or auto carpet underlay. Any hot rod shop has this stuff in 4'x6' roll and sells for about 20 bucks. KMS Car parts has it most of the time just ask for Jody he's the only strait shooter down there to deal with.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on March 21, 2014, 12:56:46 PM
Well finally got some nice weather to start the body work/paint part of the job.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0117_zpsabdaa1a0.jpg&hash=702fa20474da46d4c8708adef31b2ca87f050863)
Got all the seats repaired and paint. Next step is putting the cover on.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0118_zps99eec888.jpg&hash=5a77f0c0ed3f16836f9310b00fcd7dee151a418d)
The nice weather is starting to inspire me to get the job done.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on March 30, 2014, 10:40:40 AM
Well got the seats done and happy with the color choice.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0120_zps137e3d80.jpg&hash=516c0c87b5bdbc0d99d52d7b9c792bc65aa43b12)
I did the paint work today. Ended up having to paint more of the roof then I would like but had issues with the paint lifting off where I put to much heat from welding. If I had done it slower it would have been better......I don't have much for patience. Having trouble getting the paint to lay down. Using a new gun today and can't seem to get it working right or I'm off on my paint mixing. Oh well just put on lots of paint and break out the sandpaper and buffer tomorrow and see what I got!
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0125_zps4c224b93.jpg&hash=93654e1bdf28e421972436519fd656625048fc5d)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Geoff on March 31, 2014, 07:56:29 AM
Looks great!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Jeremy on March 31, 2014, 11:38:31 AM
Fuck Yah! Seats look awesome Thomas. Love the colour.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on April 13, 2014, 12:32:40 PM
Well I invented something new this weekend while working on the car so I thought I would share with other VW people out there. It is called Tom's one night headliner. I will tell you for free how to do this in a few easy steps.
1 set aside a whole weekend
2 install padding Friday night
3 Get up early Saturday
4 Install headliner
5 Rip headliner by trying to force it the wrong way
6 Spend the rest of the day trying to fix your fuck up
7 Try to slept that night by spent your time thinking about your fuck up
8 Wake up at 5:30 thinking about your fuck up
9 Go to garage and hope the VW fairy fixed your fuck up overnight
10 Realize it is still fucked up
11 Rip out your fucked up headliner
12 Explain to wife why you have to spend more money on your car (by explaining how much it would of cost you if you used someone that knows what they are doing)
13 Spend half your Sunday cleaning up the mess you made
14 Get out your wallet and Visa and order another headliner and hope you learned from your mistakes.

This is how you do a one night headliner.

Hope this information will help out a fellow VW person. Cheers Thomas

 
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: buddy boy on April 14, 2014, 12:03:09 AM
#12 sounds familiar .. Lol
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Jeremy on April 14, 2014, 09:35:52 AM
 :41: :41:
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on April 18, 2014, 11:26:16 AM
Well after taking a week off from the car to reflect where things went wrong here we go again. One thing I was having issues with last time that started the train to my problems was the missing corners from the front of the sunroof. They don't help support but hold the corner of your headliner (that is my guess because I don't have an example to look at). I'm going to have to make something to replace these so I have made a jig and then fabricate something. I was not happing with the job I did with the padding either so I removed all of it and starting with a padding kit from Wolfsburg West (waiting for it to show up) and I also paid the extra one dollar for their headliner instructions to help me. ;D
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0130_zps8a8d2f9c.jpg&hash=6fb9005f1c8a799474cbc0fc0cdee3e9ed277dc5)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0133_zps8f9ae309.jpg&hash=386309698f28e098bf34a7591c18e4cade0e3733)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0131_zpscf9e0947.jpg&hash=9076e84ae1bed96c3b433953d0305cf2e359372f)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: BUSDADDY on April 18, 2014, 01:43:25 PM
Doesn't that plastic strip clip over the top edge/lip of the existing roof structure where you have the cardboard stuffed in in pic 3? Get your padding in first because once you shove it in far enough and it pops over the edge there may be no civilised way to get it back out.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Jeremy on April 18, 2014, 05:10:42 PM
Sponsored by Leeman beer I see. :singing:
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on April 18, 2014, 06:42:22 PM
Yes working on the car sometimes causes you to drink.
Well I think I got it figured out for the front corners of the headliner. After an afternoon of cutting, hammering and welding this is what I came up with.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0149_zps03324c60.jpg&hash=a30ff0a7cba0a25e035d4e4ce5e32d26e437c453)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0145_zps812cdb3d.jpg&hash=f3c298aca0e2e486942ed975cedd811646b346a9)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0151_zps1771dcd6.jpg&hash=f0373a3c0241518b042eedbc888f2eac4b75ddfd)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0148_zps06352ce7.jpg&hash=2cedb501d990406c84918188d924355c3504452a)
I made it removable just encase it doesn't work out and the hole was already there. Now all I have to do is build one for the other side. Well that's enough for one day...time for a Leemans!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on April 27, 2014, 06:33:50 PM
Well back from Holidays so back to work on the headliner. I got the headliner padding kit from Wolfsburg West and instructions from them (hoping that will help).
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0002_zps49cfd054.jpg&hash=e26c644d501c7d8718069cbf6f8a797882528c8a)
Padding kit made it easy. Started to glue in liner and so far so good.
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on May 03, 2014, 01:26:49 PM
Installing the headliner on the rag top today. I found a couple of video that help show how to do it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXJnJL9xdFA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZPzipQGwOY
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on May 03, 2014, 07:09:33 PM
Made some progress today.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0007_zps045c7a8f.jpg&hash=ad446dfd5a69844bf2e0fd2c4412b87fba585c43)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0008_zpsd217160e.jpg&hash=3686d2f6553e22625519a561781324dab756916b)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0006_zps6d683863.jpg&hash=a60e1c3eb24e3ca57aca8d7cf1d652bb9f92f8d1)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on May 06, 2014, 11:17:03 AM
Well I put together the sun roof and headliner an installed it. Going to let it sit under tension for a few days and then try to retention it. I got just two more pieces of the headliner to install and in go the windows with all new rubber. Started on the carpet kit but hit a snag on the first piece as it seems the e-brake hole is in the wrong location. Waiting to here from back from TMI as it was a custom order.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0009_zps8ca49458.jpg&hash=2a25e93f402102b38b37c81b75a3f95f64f2f4d7)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0011_zps2406faff.jpg&hash=e1752d282088d5234925bcbf5d8b2d1093bdb890)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0010_zps4df2f31a.jpg&hash=cbc5c0110768de0aa788ce78cc4dd0c7e3ab1bf4)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on May 07, 2014, 12:38:51 PM
Well I glued in the last two pieces of the headliner.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0014_zps029ea6c5.jpg&hash=cdc637e14719b87084af7fefa93eeaa814d74eee)
I got the sunroof sliding back and forth.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0013_zps40b2c61b.jpg&hash=961ab3a235ffcd8064a1bb2495d9a3066cf6288e)
I made a frame to mount the stereo under the back seat and I have an old speaker box I'm going to recover to match the new interior.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0015_zpsd71c6092.jpg&hash=b84b623f970b129896aeeb3938d4f5e8d12c66aa)
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0016_zps8d3ee3d5.jpg&hash=4fce8c1bc3894acb4e6d887da2f7db0bdd8f2fec)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: J A Red on May 07, 2014, 01:09:24 PM
Looks awesome Thomas!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on May 19, 2014, 08:41:17 PM
Got some work done this weekend. Got all the glass in after a couple attempts. Silicone spray is your friend for doing this.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0051_zps59eb3385.jpg&hash=407abcadbb77066b5777950cc50ab1b6a9691704)
Started the interior just waiting for some door clips for the panels (proper ones from Wolfsburg West) and for TMI to build me a new rear section as the last one had the e-brake hole in the wrong spot.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0046_zps08e45d74.jpg&hash=32237c96ab7082b92006d6b5b1099405aa7f87df)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: silas on May 24, 2014, 09:28:07 PM
it's looking great and really coming together now, good job Thomas! almost done and ready for cruising!!  :cool:
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Thomas on June 22, 2014, 08:41:12 PM
Well I put the last pieces of the puzzle back together today. Took it for a rip Downtown with my son and snapped this picture. Just wanted to thank everyone who helped with info and support for this project. It has been fun and if anyone want to try this just let me know and I will help with any info you need. Cheer Thomas.
(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi790.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy188%2FThomas1965_bucket%2FDSC_0112_zpsc98e6a03.jpg&hash=ab9b0fbcb5cc55d319c09f52440298ab2cc7b65f)
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: bwaz on June 23, 2014, 08:01:30 AM
Car looks GREAT Thomas!
Title: Re: Rag top install
Post by: Stephan Schmidt on June 24, 2014, 08:00:44 AM
LOOKS AWESOME! Lovin the wheels Thomas!