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Home >> Ford >> 2009 >> Taurus X SEL, FWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 1296 (Convertible Top System) >> Removal And Installation >> Convertible Top Material >> Removal

Convertible Top Material: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: Be sure to mark the location of the weatherstrip retaining channels prior to removal. If the weatherstrip retaining channels are not replaced in their original locations, the weatherstrips may not seal properly, resulting in water leaks and interior damage. Failure to replace the retaining channels correctly may require replacement of the convertible top assembly.
NOTE: Use care when working around or handling the convertible top material to avoid scratching or creasing the material.
NOTE: Use care when handling the convertible top material to avoid damaging the rear glass. If damaged or broken, the rear glass cannot be replaced, and will require replacement of the convertible top material.
NOTE: Light scratches in the convertible top material can be removed using isopropyl alcohol and 600-grit sandpaper or steel wool. Use light pressure, polishing in a circular motion. Use care not to use excessive pressure. Do not use power tools, as these permanently damage the convertible top material. Heavy scratches require replacement of the convertible top material.
NOTE: Light creases in the convertible top material can be removed by applying water to the creased area, and pulling the creased area flat, while applying mild heat from a heat gun. Use care not to apply excessive heat, as this permanently damages the convertible top material. Heavy creases may require replacement of the convertible top material.
  1. Remove the convertible top assembly. For additional information, refer to Convertible Top Assembly .
  2. Place the convertible top assembly on a flat surface and open fully.
  3. Remove the screws and the LH and RH side front and rear weatherstrips and retainer channels.
  4. Remove the 11 screws and the compression panel.
  5. Remove the staples which secure the LH and RH front corners of the convertible top material to the frame.
  6. Remove the front retaining track securing the front of the convertible top material from the front of the convertible top frame No. 1 bow.
  7. Remove the foam tape and the rivets attaching the front corners of the convertible top material to the convertible top frame.
  8. Pull the top material from the header form panel.
  9. Remove the 6 screws and the header form panel.
  10. Using chalk, mark the positioning of the old top cover at the top of the convertible top frame No. 5 bow.
  11. Remove the staples attaching the convertible top material to the convertible top frame No. 5 bow.
  12. Disconnect the heated rear window electrical connectors from the rear window glass.
  13. Remove the convertible top cover elastic listing strap from the front side rails.
  14. Remove the convertible top cover elastic listing straps (one on each side) from the front side rails.
  15. Remove the convertible top cover elastic listing strap from the convertible top cover.
  16. Remove the convertible top cover elastic listing straps (one on each side) from the rear side rails.
  17. Position the water diverter aside to gain access to the tensioner cables.
  18. Remove the tensioner cable guides from the convertible top frame No. 5 bow.
  19. Remove the tensioner cables from the tensioner cable springs.
  20. Remove the 2 pin-type retainers (1 each side) securing the convertible top material to the weatherstrip retainer channels.
  21. Remove the convertible top channels from the convertible top frame No. 2 and No. 3 bows.
    • Remove the convertible top material.