Bent Penthouse Top Bows

[klkimmey]

Has anyone ever tried "flipping" the penthouse bars? I'm wondering if they are symmetrical? If so, I'm thinking that if they are bent, I could just flip them over and the bow would be in favor of a complete, sag free, lift. Any ideas?

[boywonder]

Originally Posted by klkimmey

Has anyone ever tried "flipping" the penthouse bars? I'm wondering if they are symmetrical? If so, I'm thinking that if they are bent, I could just flip them over and the bow would be in favor of a complete, sag free, lift. Any ideas?

That would work....they could be flipped. If you are going to take the time and aggravation to remove them, consider reinforcing them with cro-mo tubing inside. It's an easy mod with no worries of bending later. While you are at it, also consider replacing the 1/4-20 pivot screws with shoulder screws.

[86Scotty]

I noticed this weekend that the bend in mine is getting worse. The problem is not un-bending them, the problem is that it needs to take place with a full rehab of the top while I have it apart. This includes painting the top, modifiying the PH fabric for a front AC unit, rebuilding the top paneling and redoing the lights. Ugh. Maybe this winter.

[boywonder]

Originally Posted by 86Scotty

This includes painting the top, modifiying the PH fabric for a front AC unit, rebuilding the top paneling and redoing the lights. Ugh. Maybe this winter.

.......don't forget to modify the upper canvas attachment so that when you remove the headliner panels the canvas stays attached...........makes for easier servicing in the future, like running wires for solar, etc.

[86Scotty]

Originally Posted by boywonder

That would work....they could be flipped. If you are going to take the time and aggravation to remove them, consider reinforcing them with cro-mo tubing inside. It's an easy mod with no worries of bending later. While you are at it, also consider replacing the 1/4-20 pivot screws with shoulder screws.

I've seen a thread on removing and strengthening them with additional pipe inside but I can't find it. Can someone link it?

Thanks

[scummy]

http://www.sportsmobileforum.com/for...p-10808-3.html

[daveb]

I didn't re read this post Eric but someone posted SMB no longer sells the inserts. I'd try calling to see if you can find where they got em or at least get the specs. Boywonder did his.

[ctb]

Sorry to admit...but I forgot one latch the first "bend" (a trip to SMBNorth), and the second time, my wife forgot one latch, but didn't bend it... SOOOOO, now our "routine" is ONE PERSON unlatches stating, "Touched hooks 1..2...3" (b/c the hooks hanging down mean you've DEFINITELY unlatched it), then a verbal "Check" back and we start to raise the top....there is nothing worse than realizing the mistake and watching you hurt your baby....sad, anger, trip kick in the #$%sack....so, if you haven't yet, or have a little ADHD...try the "TOUCHED HOOKS,1,2,3" method!

[daveb]

I did the same but bent the chrome moly bars Had SMB bend em back with a jig they have. Ouch.

[86Scotty]

Thanks Scummy