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-   -   Blazer retractable convertible top (https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/showthread.php?t=405625)

tubbedII 02-07-2013 05:36 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
I too am glad you didn't part this out. It's great that instead of moving to another project you moved to another part of this one as well!

jeffg1010 02-07-2013 06:30 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
This is one of my favorite Blazer threads. Glad to see you are keeping the dream alive. I know how it is sometimes easy to get frustrated at the build process. Very cool that you refocused on other areas to keep it going. After all, a cool convertible top is kinda boring on a truck with no engine. It's gonna be a iconic show stopper when it's done.

zammer 02-07-2013 06:35 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Thanks guys!
I want the rest of the truck to move at least as fast as the top will :lol:
Since i started doing some engine/exhaust work this week I spend every minute I can on this thing now... Its like a renewed love

blazin 03-10-2013 12:55 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by zammer (Post 5874168)
Thanks guys!
I want the rest of the truck to move at least as fast as the top will :lol:
Since i started doing some engine/exhaust work this week I spend every minute I can on this thing now... Its like a renewed love

looks awesome. id love to check it out when its done.

Slammed66 03-10-2013 07:15 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Glad to hear it didn't get parted out.

This thing is badass!
Posted via Mobile Device

zammer 03-12-2013 04:02 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
4 Attachment(s)
Thanks for the comments!
I have a non top update again... I bolted on the FAST EZ EFI kit and finished welding up the exhaust, put on the new HEI and plugs/wires and she fired right up! Its been 41 months since that engine has seen fire :devil:
It was just awesome hearing that cam again and the idle.. Here are some shots. The last pic is the engine bay when i bought it. Only the block and top end is the same. I am going to try and upload the video with the engine running

Attachment 1075051

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zammer 03-12-2013 04:09 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
3 Attachment(s)
Also today as of an hour ago my new wheels are in woo hoo!
I sold the Boss 338's to a friend and ordered up some Eagle 225's staggered set 8.5x20 and 10x20... I cant wait to bolt them on tonight :metal:

Attachment 1075060

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Attachment 1075062

YBNORML 03-12-2013 04:38 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Looking sweet! Now hurry up and get those wheels on so we can see how she looks.
Posted via Mobile Device

zammer 03-15-2013 11:57 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
5 Attachment(s)
Here's some with em mounted...
I finished the inside metal with POR and set the 2 seats in place to stage for now as well... Just need for the snow to melt and i can drive it around the neighborhood :metal:

Attachment 1076517

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zammer 03-15-2013 11:58 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
1 Attachment(s)
Attachment 1076522

YBNORML 03-15-2013 12:10 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Looks awesome!!!
Posted via Mobile Device

zammer 03-15-2013 12:13 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
thank you! I agreee, i really like these wheels! The offset is perfect too. In the back I have 1/4" clearance aired out from the tire to inner bedside fender..
I like the full polished/chrome wheel more then I thought

Slammed66 03-15-2013 12:30 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
I'm running 225s on my 64 as well.

Agreed winter can eff off any time now!!
Posted via Mobile Device

zammer 03-15-2013 01:11 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Nice Matt! I just checked out your build , just awesome!
We will have to get these trucks together for a 225 wheel picture together one day... I'm pretty happy with the fit and finish of these wheels and they look sick

PHAT TONY 03-15-2013 10:22 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Hmmm....do I want a set?

zammer 03-16-2013 12:07 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
A set of 225'z?
For your blazer ? Sweet that would be
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zammer 03-20-2013 01:41 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
1 Attachment(s)
I need some help from any of the guys who have a late 60's to 70's GM convertible cars...
I am looking into how I am going to finish the top of the windshield frame in order to properly Fab a front header BOW and Winshield frame combo from a Chevelle / Caddy / Pontiac / OLDS of that era. Now what i need is some measurements... The top of the blazer windshield frame is 60" end to end so I am looking for a frame and convertible header bow that is close to the same dimensions and curvature of the Blazer windshield. A close example which would be perfect is this reproduction frame top for rusted out convertible windshield frames from 68 up Chevelle and 442 convertibles on EBAY....
Any ideas and measurement would be very much appreciated! I dont have access to a bunch of older convertibles to measure or compare around here as they are not around anymore up here, just the odd one at car shows if you are lucky..
thanks
Kris

http://compare.ebay.com/like/3502267...Types&var=sbar

Attachment 1079541

zammer 03-20-2013 03:36 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Ok, I just went ahead and ordered this windshield frame "Bridge" they call it from a 70-72 Chevelle. Its the only reproduction frame bridge anyone really makes anyways so its my best bet for a start on the blazer windshield frame to modify it, most likely section it to make it wide enough to weld onto the 60" Blazer frame over the which is an almost given being the Chevelle looks narrow in comparison. This will actually help me out alot by not having to find the top "Bridge" of a car in some field etc. to hack off and re weld on the top project... I'm actually pretty pumped I came across this today!
Now if i can successfully mod the blazer frame i just need to do the same to the actual Convertible top Header Bow so it will fit over top and seal properly and look factory intended possibly would be the ultimate!

zammer 03-30-2013 09:32 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Maybe I should start another thread in projects for this blazer now that the top is on hold but here's a new video we took yesterday with a quick cruise around the cul d sac first time in 3.5 years since its moved...

Posted via Mobile Device

babyblueoval 03-30-2013 09:36 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by zammer (Post 5980214)
Maybe I should start another thread in projects for this blazer now that the top is on hold

I vote leave everything you do to it in this thread. It's still a blazer with a future convertible top. :metal:

babyblueoval 03-30-2013 09:38 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
OK, question on the video; were you worried about your tires rubbing the fender or is that as sharp as it will turn?

zammer 03-30-2013 09:53 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Good question, I was watching to see if they would rub the fenders while turning but I have a bit more room I'm sure, I will test once I have it off the lift... I was actually aired out too so my driving height will be at least 3" higher so turning shouldn't be an issue. I aired out on the driveway for some pictures and since I'm on shrader valves still I decided I couldn't wait to air up again and went for a little spin..
Posted via Mobile Device

babyblueoval 03-30-2013 02:21 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Ok, good to know. Once I ever get started, I'll be running the Porterbuilt Dropmember C4 which is narrowed and centered in the wheel well and has the vette geometry so, in theory, I should have better turning radius than truck suspension with no rubbing anyway, but i was curious. Again, once I get to that point, we shall see. ;)
Posted via Mobile Device

YBNORML 03-30-2013 03:20 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Nice!! I bet it feels good to drive it, even if it is just around the cul de sac!
As far as a new thread goes, just do what I did with my crewcab build. PM a mod and get them to move it to the projects and builds section.
Posted via Mobile Device

zammer 03-30-2013 11:30 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
It was a killer two loops around the cul de sac lol. Felt pretty good alright but of course my next push is to see what it can do now and how it can handle, my biggest hurdle yet is passing the inspection to get it registered
Posted via Mobile Device

brian26 03-30-2013 11:39 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Sounds like header on your Blaze is stock width?

The very best fitting I ever found, was the front edge , outer skin, of a 67-72 Chevy truck top lid. 2 of these, sandwhiched together, would help make that happen. A beaded edge on the fabric, like the hemline on a girls skirt, and curtain style rod run through the edge, could help give an equal amount of resistance to 'pull', when the top fabric stretches out.

Somewhere between this and your header bow, and maybe a looksee on a blazer top, is the combo to fit there .

The rear cover can be hinged using 67-72 Chevy truck hood hinges. I used that on mine and it worked just fine. However, in the future I intend to use billett hood hinges for more accuracy. They would clear everything including the edge of the tailgate. I also have a great idea on how to get a tight fitting actuator device that would open the rear .

I would look at the door glass on a 2 door , 1960 GM Hardtop, not post, hardtop. Maybe even a convertable of that time. Study the operation. The glass may not fit, but there are some pretty slick ideas to look at for sealing.

I have subscribed to your youtube page, my handle is 'texonthebeach'. PM me if you want my phone number, or just to communicate in a backchannel fashion, to toss ideas around.

You are very close to doing what was said couldn't be done. For every issue, there is an answer. Really.






Quote:

Originally Posted by zammer (Post 5959649)
Ok, I just went ahead and ordered this windshield frame "Bridge" they call it from a 70-72 Chevelle. Its the only reproduction frame bridge anyone really makes anyways so its my best bet for a start on the blazer windshield frame to modify it, most likely section it to make it wide enough to weld onto the 60" Blazer frame over the which is an almost given being the Chevelle looks narrow in comparison. This will actually help me out alot by not having to find the top "Bridge" of a car in some field etc. to hack off and re weld on the top project... I'm actually pretty pumped I came across this today!
Now if i can successfully mod the blazer frame i just need to do the same to the actual Convertible top Header Bow so it will fit over top and seal properly and look factory intended possibly would be the ultimate!


zammer 03-30-2013 11:46 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Truck top lid... Hmmmm that's a good idea!
When you say sandwich together two of them is that piggy backed or opposing?
Trying to picture how the two work together...
Thanks for subscribing and the tips / ideas.. I'm treading new territory with this header bow now...
Posted via Mobile Device

1lo67 03-31-2013 10:46 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Cool Vid...

TonyJohnson 03-31-2013 12:25 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
I seem to remember when the bikini top project was going full swing, someone made a mold of the front section of a blazer top to create an attachment without the snaps... Can't find it now?

zammer 03-31-2013 12:32 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Dude that would be sweet if I had a mold to start from
Posted via Mobile Device

skorpioskorpio 03-31-2013 04:48 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
I believe you are looking for this thread...

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=526018

zammer 03-31-2013 07:20 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
NIce! thanks for the link.. that would work great too for a top header and made out of glass would make it lighter as well... Now, reading the thread it seems it may take some time if/when he decides to produce them.. Very cool idea though..

TonyJohnson 03-31-2013 10:58 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Yeah, that's it. I always wondered if this was something that could be vacuformed from a thicker plastic If you did it in two pieces, assembled it could be pretty strong. Two pieces would also allow you to have two different applications- convertible top or soft top snaps...

Something I've wanted to play with since I was a kid and had a toy version.

http://www.spookshows.com/toys/vacuf...ont-of-box.jpg

BigCountryx 04-01-2013 09:28 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
I gotta say, welding up the door tops around the rear was worth the effort.
Posted via Mobile Device

zammer 04-01-2013 09:39 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Hey thanks. I like the look as well. Once the joints are filled in and painted it will look much cleaner
Posted via Mobile Device

JOHNORO 04-01-2013 09:49 AM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Looking Good :c2:

brian26 04-01-2013 04:49 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by zammer (Post 5981719)
Truck top lid... Hmmmm that's a good idea!
When you say sandwich together two of them is that piggy backed or opposing?
Trying to picture how the two work together...
Thanks for subscribing and the tips / ideas.. I'm treading new territory with this header bow now...
Posted via Mobile Device

Yes one stacked on top of the other, piggy backed, like a cup fits into a cup.

The deal I got into with my sheet metal lid is it is only one layer of metal, and at 60 -70 mph , unbraced, the vacuum above it would cause it to slap. 2 layers would give a vise-like grip for material, and raise the speed you can go before the vacuum tries to pull the top back. I ended up using a 1" strip of metal to help raise the speed limit I could go. 90 mph was enough for me.

To reduce weight on the bottom layer at least, lightening holes , flared, could help reduce that problem. But then that may blow the point of doing it all together, if the strength is gone.

zammer 04-18-2013 03:31 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
4 Attachment(s)
OK... a new update for the top.. I got the 68-72 Chevelle convertible windshield frame bridge in!
I am pretty happy because the curvature and overall demensions are amazingly close to the bridge on the blazer.. The top of the blazer windshield is approx 60" and the width of the chevelle is 53". So since i think i can actually make this work I ordered one more bridge to section in the 7" , i thought i could try to fab one but i dont have any decent tools to do so and this will much better! I also ordered all the hardware i need to secure the header BOW to the windshield as well ( including 2 brand new header bows @ $360 / ea) which is getting spendy but im into this convertible top for unknown $$ now so I want to continue to do it so it looks very nice and hopefully factory intended once its in action :metal:
heres some shots to show the size etc

Attachment 1094546

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Attachment 1094549

tubbedII 04-18-2013 03:56 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Wow...that curvature really does match up well! Everytime I open this thread, I still think to my self "this is so damn cool".

zammer 04-18-2013 05:04 PM

Re: Blazer retractable convertible top
 
Alright! Thank you I hope it's cool in the summer and warm in the fall lol
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