Spyder 1999 Spyder #2 Bow repair??

[ufcchris]

I recently bought a 1999 Spyder that needs a lot of work, Im doing a ground up rebuild. currently im replacing the convertible top and headliner. when I dropped the headliner the #2 bow fell out into my lap.... I ordered the repair kit as the brackets were all bent and this seems common.... problem is I have no reference as to how the bow set on the frame to begin with since it fell out when I started.... it doesn't seem to actually mount to the frame?? the instructions on the repair kit show the brackets bolting to it only?? does it just float??? or am I missing something here? I tried to find pictures of just the Spyder top frame and bows to look at but have had no luck..... please help

 

[infam0usdeed]

Looking at mine, if I`m looking at the right one, is not attached. Pretty sure its the one that just sits into place. No screws or anything for it aside brackets.

I love that repair kit.

 

[ufcchris]

thanks for your reply, when my new headliner arrives Monday I guess I will hope for the best in figuring it all out

 

[DogWhistle]

The second rib is also known as the floating rib. My Spyder's replacement top was not glued to the second rib like the others, and, after installing the replacement kit, it operates just fine. Be sure you test the top's operation a few inches at a time to watch the cables that come with the new brackets. If the eyelets are not facing forward, the motor will rip the new cables right out of the eyelets.

 

[ufcchris]

The second rib is also known as the floating rib. My Spyder's replacement top was not glued to the second rib like the others, and, after installing the replacement kit, it operates just fine. Be sure you test the top's operation a few inches at a time to watch the cables that come with the new brackets. If the eyelets are not facing forward, the motor will rip the new cables right out of the eyelets.

thank you, I will be installing repair kit today, new headliner and top arrive tomorrow. I have to go source bolts as the factory bracket bolts were missing when I got the car....

 

[spyderdrifter]

As stated, the #2 rib is a floating rib. Once you install the repair kit, it'll function properly, so long as you have the elastic strip attached to it that pull it back as the top is dropped. If those aren't attached, the brackets will get bent.