SERVICE MANUAL UPDATE CONVERTIBLE TOP ADJUSTMENT

Model and Year: 1987-88 CAMARO CONVERTIBLE

The convertible top linkage consists of the No. 1 header bow, side roof rails, hinges, connecting links and bows. The top linkage is attached to the body at the rear quarter area by stationary main pivot bracket. The convertible top locks to the windshield header by auger type latches.

The main reasons for the convertible top framework not operating correctly are damage and misalignment of the linkage. The following information outlines and illustrates procedures which may be used to repair misaligned convertible top linkage. To repair some top misalignments only a single adjustment is required; other top misalignments require a combination of adjustments.

The alignment of the various components of the convertible top mechanism must be accurate if the top is to operate correctly. If damage has occurred, forcing the pivot points out of alignment, it will be difficult to reset the links (by visually realigning them) and restore them to their correct dimensions. In the event of not being able to obtain the correct alignment, the entire subassembly of which the affected part is a component, will have to be replaced. If a pivot bolt or link is broken, that part must be replaced.

Upstops (See Illustration)

If the top auger latches do not align properly to the windshield header receivers, the top may be adjusted as follows:

Inspect

Side rails (rear ends) are engaged properly into isolator clip in rear rails (View B) when top is raised to the windshield. If side rails are not engaged properly into rear rail isolator clips, the auger latches will not align to header receivers.

Adjust

1. Lower convertible top.

2. Loosen upstop lock nuts and turn upstops (2) clockwise.

3. Raise and latch top to windshield.

4. Raise No. 5 bow to full vertical position.

5. Turn upstops counterclockwise until upstops contact convertible top linkage.

6. Unlatch and lower convertible top.

7. Tighten upstop lock nuts while holding upstops in position.

Inspect

Raise and latch top to windshield and check for proper alignment and latching effort.

Downstops (See Illustration)

The downstops can be adjusted for proper clearance between the rear rail and No. 4 bow when the top is lowered completely.

Inspect

Clearance between rear rail (linkage attaching boss) and No. 4 bow with top in lowered position.

Adjust

1. Raise convertible top.

2. Loosen downstop lock nuts and adjust downstops (3) as required.

3. Tighten downstop lock nuts while holding downstops in position.

Inspect

Lower convertible top and check for proper clearance.

Labor Operation Number: B3980

Labor Time: .5 Hours

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.