Convertible Top Frame (Power/ Manual)

[filmsurgeon]

Can anyone tell me if there is a difference between a power and/or manual drop top frame?  My convertible Challenger originally came with a power top, but the previous owner chose to convert it to a manual top.  I am seriously considering going back to power, but I'm not sure if the top's frame I have on the car is unique to a manual drop-top.  I would be looking at after market pump, cylinders, hoses, etc.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.  Thanx

[4Cruizn]

As far as I know the frame is the same.   

[filmsurgeon]

Can anyone shed some light on the amount of difficulty to return this now 'manual-drop-top' car back to power?  I have seen on the internet (ebay, etc.) aftermarket parts (pumps/motors, lines and cylinders/pistons) specifically intended for installation into vintage chrysler, dodge and plymouth convertible vehicles.  Thanks

[CUDAMAN1970]

I'm converting my 71 Barracuda from manual top to power.  The items you will need are:

power top switch - this is being reproduced by B&E.  A used switch from other mopar convertibles of the era will work.  The switch I have is probably from a C-Body.

power top motor, lines, and cylinders - a C-Body setup is the same.  I bought the motor, cyllinders and lines from Jeff Bobst for $100 tested.  This was a few years ago so the price may be higher today.  I can give you Jeff's contact information as he may have another setup on hand.

Four hole cluster bezel ralley or non-ralley dash part - You can buy this part from B&E.

Rear Light Harness for Convertibles - since your car was originally a power top car, the wiring for the power top motor should be in place otherwise you can get the harness from Year One (part # RL60 70 challenger conv, part #RL65 71 challenger convertible).

It's not that difficult to make the conversion to power top.  The main reason I'm doing it is for the ease of putting the top up or down with the power option.

Hope this helps.

[filmsurgeon]

Thanks for the info.  I think I'll look into alternate options for parts other than the images I posted, as this three piece kit will cost at least $500.00.  In any case I will be seriously considering converting back to a power top.  Any other helpful advice that other members can offer will of course be greatly appreciated.

[cowboy]

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There is a lot of good info on this site...

http://www.hydroe.com/


I use the rear defog switchs for the top.....

[ragtopdodge]

I hope the previous owner didn't cut out the rear brace that holds the pump!!!

That still there?