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Technical Top install help

Discussion in 'Traditional Customs' started by birdman1, Jul 24, 2025 at 6:56 PM.

  1. birdman1
    Joined: Dec 6, 2012
    Posts: 1,675

    birdman1
    Member

    I am replacing the top on my 1960 mercury monterey convertible. The old fabric was rotten and gone so I am having trouble figuring out how to install the new top. Maybe someone could send me some pictures of your ford or mercury convertible top of the inside of the window.does anyone have a install book to recommend? Thanks for the help.
     
  2. jaracer
    Joined: Oct 4, 2008
    Posts: 2,907

    jaracer
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    Having been involved in a convertible top install by a couple of rank amateurs, I'd recommend having an auto upholstery shop install the top. I think you will be time and money ahead.

    Also, the top on a 60 Mercury has to be huge.
     
    lothiandon1940 likes this.
  3. birdman1
    Joined: Dec 6, 2012
    Posts: 1,675

    birdman1
    Member

    Good advice, I guess I'm a gluten for punishment
     
    lothiandon1940 likes this.
  4. I helped install a top on a 57 Chevy as a teen. I remember it was not easy.

    But if you must, see if you can find some YouTube videos to show you how it is done. Be especially critical as to wrinkles in the finished install.
     
    lothiandon1940 likes this.
  5. kb cookout
    Joined: Dec 17, 2004
    Posts: 5,640

    kb cookout
    Member

    lothiandon1940 and pprather like this.
  6. Check YouTube videos. I'm sure there are some on Fords which might be similar. Yeah I realize the top looks more complex but they are all really similar. The attachment of the rear window area takes the most planning. It's a lot of work.
    On my cars I have done one full top and one repair.
    Maybe sure to have all the hardware ready. You
    might need snap grommet tools. Stainless steel screws. Maybe sure to use good contact cement where needed. Hole punching does or leather punch tool
    Also preparing the areas where the top will go is as much work. Clean the gutter and the rear package tray area. Paint if needed.
    Check for rust make sure you have either the tack strip or stainless trim that goes in the back. Check to see how the header looks. If it's wood you might need to replace it.
    You will need an air compressor and stapler or just a power stapler.

    I personally would tackle it. If you don't like what the quote is from a top shop.

    Take it in steps and don't expect to finish in a few days.
    https://www.convertibletopguys.com/convertible/454/1959-1960-Mercury-Monterey-amp;-Park-Lane

    if it's got the old top. undo in steps and take good pictures and them reverse the steps.

    usually you set up the the rear of the top and lock or snap everything in and stretch forward to the header in the locked down position. That's what you stretch stuff smooth. Sun and steaming helps
     
    Last edited: Jul 26, 2025 at 12:51 PM
    lothiandon1940 likes this.

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