Convertible top frame differences

[BammBamm]

My 1982 di spider needs a new convertible top frame. I found a good one at a u pull it junk yard from a 1978. Will it fit?

[v6spider]

It's a good question.. I'm thinking anything 76 to 82 should work.. body's prior to that year range are different..

Cheers!
Rob

[rridge]

During the 1978 model year a change in top detail was made. The design of the front sheet metal bow was changed. The position of the latches may be different. The bow over the drivers head may have been arched a bit more to provide more headroom. It was a rolling change. There was not a clean transition date. The easiest way to spot the difference is at the front corners. The early top has sharply pointed corners. The late top has rounded corners. A further point of confusion is that the hollow sheet metal bows often rust out and are replace with other second-hand bows. An old style frame that's been fitted with a new style bow is a headache to fit a top to.

[BammBamm]

Great. As long as some of it is the same, I will go get it. Mine is badly rusted at the windows and all the metal is pitted. Thanks for the tips.

[manoa matt]

There was some talk years ago about the 79 and later top frames also being 1/2" taller than the pre 79 frames.