[RedRobster]

Hey guys---decided to do the rag-top myself- after hearing the prices to do it here locally- I could screw up 2 tops before i get it right and still save money! I need to know what the best adhesive is for gluing down the tack strips. Ive got a 69 galaxie i'm working on- and the old strips appear ( at least the header bow strip) to be - well- riveted in place--when i pulled the old strip off (it was rotted) There are studs left that the tack strip was attached to---but no rivet/stud head on the top side of the bow. The strips that i ordered, are just solid tack strips, so im confused as to how i can place the header strip on the bow- without either grinding down the studs, or drilling holes in the strip. Anyway---any advice would be welcomed, and specifically - the type of adhesive i need to use to apply the tack strips once I figure out how to solve the "stud" problem . Ive read most of the top install threads on-line and none of them mention the tack strips or well liner install.( Any galaxie convertible members out there?) Thanks guys, I really appreciate any insight on this.

[Bob C]

The tack strip should be riveted or screwed, glue won't hold it. Shop labor can be quite high for installing a top, and you are about to find out why. They can be very time consuming. I install them but there are other things I would rather do. On these old cars you're always dealing with bent or broken
parts, bad tack strips and many other issues. I'm sure you can do it and it will be an experience.
Bob

[LittleTruck]

First of all, good attitude. I figured the same as you and have now done three convertible tops for vintage Mustangs. Take your time, get a pneumatic staple gun and ratchet, and have a second person available to help you pull / stretch while you staple. You'll end up stapling/unstaping and bolting/unbolting the rear tackstrips several times before you finish, so using a power ratchet and a good staplegun are key.

As far as the pads are concerned, I used 3m Super 77 spray adhesive to close the pads, and used poprivets in the front bow and staples in the other bows.

California Mustang offers a how-to video that is quite helpful. It is geared towards the Mustang, but should cross over for your Galaxie and give you plenty of good tips. Here's a link to the order site. VT3 is for the convertible top install.

I've had the best luck with Robbins tops. Good luck.

[RedRobster]

I appreciate the replies so far ! Thanks for the encouragement guys!