MG Car Repair: Convertible top diagnosis, chrome hooks, windshield frame

Question
Hi Barrie,

1968 MGB roadster, GHN4.  I am a newbie to convertible tops, and I have a question or two about mine...  It is the type that folds and tucks away behind the seats.

1.  There is an air gap of about 3/8 inch between the top of the windshield frame and the bottom edge of the top, where it meets the windshield frame, in the middle.  Is the front of the top warped, or is that about right?

2.  The clamps that hold the top to the windshield frame on the inside do not clamp with much bite; they are actually rather loose.  Are these clamps worn out?

Any tutoring about tops would be most appreciated!  Thank you in advance.

Regards,
Dan

Answer
Hi Dan.  At the rear of the hood there are two large chrome hooks that must be located before the header rail is clipped to the top of the windscreen frame.  If you fail to locate them, the hood will remain slack and the front clips will not have much bite.  

I am a bit concerned that there is a 10mm gap in the middle.  If anything, it should be the other way round.  The header rail should touch in the middle.  When you then fasten one of the clips, there should be a 10mm gap at the other side which is then taken up by the second clamp.  This spring in the header rail gives the clamps their bite.

There is also a rubber seal between the header rail and the windscreen frame.  It is part number AHH7136, and is available from Moss Motors in the USA.  Perhaps your seal is a bit tired?

Moss can also sell you an owners handbook for your car.  I think you will find it very useful.

Hope this helps.