1968 Shelby convertible top

[wkvasnicka]

Is it necessary to unzip the split glass rear window before putting the top down?

[CharlesTurner]

Is it necessary to unzip the split glass rear window before putting the top down?

It's not necessary, but unzipping will release the pressure on the window seams and extend the life of the top.

[Bill Collins]

I strongly recommend unzipping the window. Although it will fold sufficiently to allow putting the top down with it in place, the severity of the fold eventually causes the silicone hinge strip to detach from the edges of the glass. I have seen this many times on convertibles that I have sold over the years.

This is especially so now that the material may be decades old. Bear in mind the Ford / Shelby did not engineer these cars to last fifty plus years. Unzipping the window allows it to rest in the top well at a gentle angle, which prolongs the bond of the strip to the glass.

[FL SAAC]

I strongly recommend unzipping the window. Although it will fold sufficiently to allow putting the top down with it in place, the severity of the fold eventually causes the silicone hinge strip to detach from the edges of the glass. I have seen this many times on convertibles that I have sold over the years.

This is especially so now that the material may be decades old. Bear in mind the Ford / Shelby did not engineer these cars to last fifty plus years. Unzipping the window allows it to rest in the top well at a gentle angle, which prolongs the bond of the strip to the glass.

Best advice ever, especially on an old top
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