I finally took the plunge – removed the top, replaced the 5th bow and brackets, and did the rubbing modifications per the TSB. GM Customer Service was no help – after multiple communications all I got was “the car only has 8,000 miles but it is past warranty in years”. I had hoped Chevy would stand behind their product a bit more considering the top issues and being a long time Chevy customer (first car was a ’64 Impala SS convertible with a Muncie 4 spd) but no luck.
The Parts per #PIC5449D: Convertible Roof Cloth Sags At Rear / Large Gap Between Number 5 Bow And Rear Panel - (Nov 4, 2015) Total parts were about $500.
Part Number Description QTY
22856131 Folding Top Pivot Bracket - LH 1
22856132 Folding Top Pivot Bracket - RH 1
22936377 5th bow / bracket assembly 1
11611499 Pin 8
19120405 Clip 8
11546538 Rivet 4
I had asked on the forum how to get the correct 5th bow and the answer is if you order the bow, the part was revised in the system – same part number and you’ll get the right part.
And thanks to DanielW and Angie11 for their complete write ups – a huge help (and inspiration).
The Patient:
The Problem:
Part of the cause:
Water bag too tight in the corners
The repair:
Whether you’re doing just the brackets or the full repair, order a couple of clips for the High mounted brake light – they don’t stock them online and it takes about two weeks.
The progress:
Note that I taped cardboard across the trunk in case the top got too close during the removal.
Note how the old bracket on the left hits is touching the cardboard, ahile the new bracket on the right is an inch or more higher – that’s how bent the bracket was.
Note also the blue plastic interior trim tools, if you don’t have a set get them, invaluable for all trim work. Eastwood has an inexpensive set – I’ve had mine for years.
Final prep:
I cleaned and coated the top with the Raggtop kit. I like to mask the car. Only takes 30 minutes and saves a lot of cleanup after.
The result
