How to Replace a Fox Body Convertible's Top

A project such as replacing your convertible top is no easy task for a non-professional, not to mention the amount of time and patience required for correct fitment. It is definitely recommended that if you do decide to tackle this one on your own that you have a garage or some kind of cover as you shouldn’t plan on having it all together in one day. In addition this is definitely a project that helps to have more than one person due to the stretching and fitting of the fabric. On the other hand, if you decide to leave it to the professionals, don’t be surprised if the bill adds up to over 1000$ for parts and labor. If you do take it on your own learn the correct way with available install guides.

Replacing a top is no easy task. While it would seem to be a few hours worth of work, it can quickly turn into a full day if not longer. Assuming that your convertible frame is in a  crack-free condition, which isn’t always the case, you’re going to need a few things. As it’s easier to do many things at once when you have everything apart it’s not a bad idea to knock it all out at once. First you’ll need to pick a new top kit. Some include rear glass windows with or without tint and plastic windows. Plastic rear windows are easier to install but definitely lose the clean look, with eventual fading in the rearview. Along with the rear window assembly and top fabric you’re going to need the convertible top pads for both sides which protect the visible outer later from the sharp cast aluminum frame in movement and tight fitments and also provide tension and support to the top.

Some general tools to have would be basic hand tools, a boxcutter/knife, some needle nose pliers, and in most cases, a staple gun with staples (figure around 500 staples (aluminum) ranging from 1/4 inch to about 3/8 inch along with a staple gun). A hand staple gun will work but a pneumatic one is definitely recommended.

Other tools you may need besides a basic tool kit maybe a staple puller, punch, rubber mallet, ball peen, and duct tape. The duct tape is used to go over all staples for added protection but is not required (it will not be visible). Lastly you will need a form of spray adhesive for vinyl.

In most cases, there is spare material that may need to be cut in order for proper fitment. Things included in removal is removing rear seats, the headliner itself, miscellaneous trim, and lots of staples from the old connection points. When installing the new top, remember to make sure to get the wrinkles out and as firmly as possible. proper fitment over the guide rings is crucial as reinstalling the rear window can become gruesome if not. It's generally advised to start the stapling in the middle and work your way to the outer portions of the top. It is also a strong idea to use the shorter staples in the middle and the longer ones on the outer edges.

The 1991-1993 tops were revised to allow the top to sit lower when retracted. This resulted in a slight frame difference when compared to the 1983-1990 models. They can be swapped over, but it can be tedious having to make frame changes/modifications.

While it’s only an option, now is a great time to replace all the weather stripping on the car, especially the pieces around the top. Why fix the leaks on the top if you’re still going to have  rain water  running down the inside of your windows? It’s a simple but obvious problem like this that, when not quickly fixed, can cause electrical components not to work properly (most likely your four window motors). There are many weather-stripping kits for your Fox Body Mustang that include everything to reseal those windows and top for a dry interior. It is also a great time to check all hydraulic lines for leaks in addition to the hydraulic reservoir/pump assembly (which can be located behind the back seat). If replacing the fluid be sure to use the correct type (refer to owners manual), which is sometimes a form of automatic transmission fluid rather than standard hydraulic fluid.

• Subframe Connectors come in two variants, weld-on and bolt-on
• They enhance the structural intergrity of your Fox Body Mustang
• Increase rigidity and handling as well

Besides doing something with that old ragtop, the much recommended subframe connectors are an essential mod for any convertible Mustang pre 2005. The lack of a solid roof greatly diminishes the structural support of a Foxbody's unibody design. Subframe connectors restore this loss in support and can help prevent damage and needed repairs to your convertible top in the future.