[77 Canamman]

This "journey" pales in comparison to yours, Bob. However, I have spent hours studying several TSB's and Hurst manuals from the day. It helps having a complete roof sitting at my disposal. I am confident this will go well. Even with purchasing the complete roof, all new weatherstrip, the trunk storage bag, clips, bolts, and various parts/supplies, I have spent less than $1500.

I will follow your advice on the tape. The original paint on this car is excellent, so I will do everything possible to prevent damage.

[77 Canamman]

Drivers side is cut. I did not encounter any paint chipping. I cut it right the first time. The frame set right into place. The support slipped right in between the roof panels. Off to a good start..

[Aus78Formula]

Neat work, likely neater than when done on rushed production line. Now get out and cruise in your rare Half-Hurst!

How did you end up trimming it, dremel or similar rotary saw?

[77 Canamman]

I used a battery operated jig-saw. A saws-all was used for a couple of the initial cuts.

[The Boss]

Only for the brave!

Well done!

[Poncho Dave]

Looking good!

[77 Canamman]

I found this nOS beauty..

[77 Canamman]

Other side done. Absolutely zero hiccups. The frame fit great. Now to refinish the tops themselves, and reassemble the headliner, and various trim.

[ladytata]

Trashman that looks bad as$, congrats on one hell of a job! Looks awesome.

[77 Canamman]

Thank you, Teri.

[TAKerry]

WOW! My hats off to you. Great job. I would never have even considered attempting that on a finished car. What do you have to do to "refinish the tops"?
I have a few pair that need some work and would like to see what you do.

[77 Canamman]

Originally Posted by TAKerry

WOW! My hats off to you. Great job. I would never have even considered attempting that on a finished car. What do you have to do to "refinish the tops"?
I have a few pair that need some work and would like to see what you do.

Thank you, Kerry.

I figured that Hurst performed this surgery to several thousand finished cars back in 1976-1978, so why not?

The tops I have have good glass, but the frames were painted rather poorly in black. I will strip this paint off, use a high quality etching primer, and paint them trim black. If this does not hold up, then I will have to locate factory black anodized tops. I intend to have the tops in the trunk the majority of the time I have the car out.

[Green Hornet]

Great thread........Think I've gone through most of it....

.Don't think I could pull the sawzall trigger .....on a TA of that caliber.

Just wondering if your 77 has the original bumper jack...(I'm sure it does)....and would you have some pics of it to post?

I think I have the right one...but need to confirm...

Thanks

[77 Canamman]

Thanks, GH

The jack equipment has never been removed from its location since the cars assembly. The tire has never been on the ground. I will shoot a better photo of it for you this evening.

Here are the two I currently have on file:

[77 Canamman]

The jack and handle:





The RH side. The Metro weatherstrip has been installed. LH side already completed. The headliner is in and trimmed.

[Green Hornet]

Thanks for posting the jack pics....

Can you tell me if the one I have...is the same?

This one is just over 31" long.....and does fit in the brackets....

[The Boss]

What was involved in trimming the headliner? Was it as simple as cutting and tucking into a trim piece?

I get that Hurst cut a ton of these when they were new, but I'd have probably left the job to my body guy - you are a brave and talented guy!

[Aus78Formula]

Save your money, just use the roof cuts instead of buying t-top glass!

[77 Canamman]

I installed the headliner. Before the weatherstripping was installed, I marked the opening with a marker, then with an ultra sharp knife, I cut out the headliner. On a first design Hurst Hatch, there is a huge lip on the interior side of the weatherstripping that covers the opening. The headliner is attached to the T Top frames using several small metal spring clips. I have done paint and body jobs for years. I just kept pretending this car was a Sunbird while I took the saws to it. Made it a lot easier.

[77 Canamman]

Originally Posted by Green Hornet

Thanks for posting the jack pics....

Can you tell me if the one I have...is the same?

This one is just over 31" long.....and does fit in the brackets....

From another board members '78:





Then you'll need the handle, wing nut and retainer.