Topic: Hard top on or off?
in Forum: C4 General Discussion
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Has anyone had experience with driving a 96 C4 with the hard top off? I've been afraid to drive
with the top off because of all the bad stuff I've read about the "wind" noise and the body chatters
badly because of lack of rigidity in the roof. Also, does the Hatch latch that raises the rear window
really hellp?
Thanks in advance for your response
Darryl
with the top off because of all the bad stuff I've read about the "wind" noise and the body chatters
badly because of lack of rigidity in the roof. Also, does the Hatch latch that raises the rear window
really hellp?
Thanks in advance for your response
Darryl
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I drive with the top off quite a bit in the summer and the dreaded Corvette "flex" is highly overrated in my opinion. Yes the body will make creaking noises and you will notice it on a very bumpy road, but it's not like you'll lose control of your car. Certainly nothing to be scared off, the engineers did know what they were doing (other than the opti, replacing the #8 plug and replacing the fuel filter or heater core)
I've had the hood latch that raises the back window for a few years and consider it one of my wisest purchases. Makes a huge difference, top on or off.
I too have had the rear window latch for my '88 coupe and it is a godsend! HUGE difference in the amount of interior wind disruption....definately worth the price....IMHO!
....JeffDarryl, I didn't notice the body flexing too much so as has been stated, it's more than likely over rated. If you are really worried, there's a few aftermarket items that you can get. One's called a Targa Truss and it fits in place of the top and from the same company is a X cross brace for the chassis. It bolts on the front where the convertible brace fits but you have to drill and bolt it on at the back. I don't think you need either.
As for the hatch device, worth it for sure. It fits in no time flat and lets the trapped air flow out. Keep it in the console for those top off moments!
Yes, I too get wind buffeting with the top off. I bought a hatch lift bracket, and look forward to using it this summer.
My previous car had the same issue when the back windows were open, with no way to solve it. At least with our C4's we have a way of solving the issue...
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lanoka harbor, NJ - USA
Joined: 3/22/2009
Posts: 1363
Vette(s): 1990 L-98 white/ red/black leather interior targa top auto
1975 L48 blue/black leather interior t tops auto
have to agree with the others about the body flexing. i take my top off evry chance i get. i was always going to invest in the latch for the back but haven't yet. with or without it its great with the top off. i have had my 90 for 4 yrs and have only used the a/c when it was raining out and couldn't take off the top.
the dynamic duo
c3vr life member #97
I live in Arizona, and I think my '84 had the top off more than on, except some really hot days when A/C is a must. But I like riding my Bike with a shorty helmet too..
My '85 now has the glass top,and I'm getting older, but I'll bet it'll be off more than on, unless I have to have the wife with me.
I just got my Ventmaster hatch vent from ventmaster.net. It works GREAT. Easy to install and
makes a cooling air vent through the car. Top off no problem!
Thanks to all of you for your input
Darryl
makes a cooling air vent through the car. Top off no problem!
Thanks to all of you for your input
Darryl
in Forum: C4 General Discussion
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