Convertible top tack strip adhesive

John Long

John Long

Member
As the title suggests, I am trying to decide how best to attach my convertible tack strips.

Obviously, I have some metal work to do, but the early GM header bow has no area underneath that would allow screws or rivets to protrude without being seen. I am also concerned the tabs which are designed to fold over and retain them will be weak and brittle.

While I can replace some of the tabs as I repair the front bow, I have been thinking a out placing the tack strip in a bed of urethane window caulk, epoxy cement, liquid nails, or maybe Corvette panel adhesive. I even saw a Corvette site that said they embedded them in body filler!?!?

Have any of you guys had to cross this bridge and if so, what did you use?

These pictures show the design of the bow. Obviously I just got it sand blasted and have done no metal work yet.





 
John, I'm no interior guy, but the last 40 years used a bunch of 3m weatherstrip adhesive similar to picture.
Strip shown takes a beating, and positive I did about 21 years ago, and don't think I've replaced it.
Better advice may be out there.
 

Attachments

  • 20200404_164744.jpg
    20200404_164744.jpg
    254.5 KB · Views: 299
  • 20200404_164853.jpg
    20200404_164853.jpg
    160.7 KB · Views: 323
If the tack strip was soft and/or pliable, I think the weatherstrip cement might work. The tack strip is quite hard and is not going to conform and make tight contact all around. I suspect I would be better off with a product that I can make a bed out off and sink the tack strip into it.

It is odd. I have spent a good deal of time searching YouTube and forums. There is very little out there. Usually, you have to sort through it all to decide who knows what they are talking about.

I guess the best advice is to not start with junk and you won't have this problem.:rolleyes: First step is to make it fit to use..............

John
 
I used super glue on these John, and had to cut and shape the tack strips. I bought several different super glues for testing, and Gorilla glue was the strongest.
100_2763.jpg
100_2763.jpg
 
Last edited:
John on my 58 Olds I used windshield urethane,my tabs were fine but that was in 1998 and still great. Maybe check with SEM they may have a product just for this. There 2 part seam sealer is also a good adhesive.
 
The front tack strip, as well as the very rear curtain and side trim sticks (if any are used) will be under a steady pull when the top is installed and in the up position. That is why GM put the tabs on the front header strip. If it were me I would use 3M-8115 panel adhesive and add a few pop rivets.

Mike
 
Thanks Mike, The reason for my post is the front bow is single thickness preventing the use of screws or rivets. I suspect the panel adhesive would work but the rivets are not an option. I'm sorry if I did not make that clear..

Chris, That is exactly what I was looking for. While I had it in my mind the urethane might be a good choice I had not found confirmation until you posted Jeff's "how to" thread. If Jeff uses it, I suspect it is a good choice. For one thing, If I place the strip in a good "bed" under and behind, it will lock the strip in place preventing it from moving. The tabs at that point should be much more efficient since the tack strip can not twist or move in the channel.

I really appreciate the feed back from you guys. I will follow up on this thread as I go. Maybe it will provide someone else with some answers down the road.

Thanks again,
John
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top