Unzip or not -- that is the question

[eric lipper]

This is a well-debated topic but I really could not find any discussion about it.  The 69 Convertible has the glass backlight.  Some people say unzip when you put the top down but others say don't worry about it.  What say the experts?

[Bob Gaines]

This is a well-debated topic but I really could not find any discussion about it.  The 69 Convertible has the glass backlight.  Some people say unzip when you put the top down but others say don't worry about it.  What say the experts?

By unziping the back glass you lesson the tension put on the glass area while the top is folding.  The tension could possibly cause the silicone strip that divides the two pieces of glass to split apart. A older glass window is especially susceptible to the glass window separating from the the silicone strip.  If you lower the top without unziping the rear glass do so with your fingers crossed for good luck.   

[eric lipper]

Thanks Bob, I always appreciate your insight.  Sounds like I should just unzip it and leave it in the well.

[JWH]

With a glass window, I would say unzipping is mandatory. As Bob pointed out, the window will seperate (ask me how I know).   
Jeff

[shelbymann1970]

This is a well-debated topic but I really could not find any discussion about it.  The 69 Convertible has the glass backlight.  Some people say unzip when you put the top down but others say don't worry about it.  What say the experts?

By unziping the back glass you lesson the tension put on the glass area while the top is folding.  The tension could possibly cause the silicone strip that divides the two pieces of glass to split apart. A older glass window is especially susceptible to the glass window separating from the the silicone strip.  If you lower the top without unziping the rear glass do so with your fingers crossed for good luck.

Thanks. I wish I knew this a year ago.... Gary

[mr68shelby]

I have now started unzipping my 68 rear window after reading this. My question is can I leave it unzipped? Or is there an easy way for one person to zip it back up? I drive mine a couple times a month and I have not figured out an easy way to get it zipped back up. Thanks! Mike

[CharlesTurner]

+1 on unzipping the rear window, especially when it's hinged glass.  Also given on advice from friends in the auto upholstery/interior business for many years.

[eric lipper]

I unzipped mine and just left it in the well.  I am never driving in the rain and the reason I bought the convertible was for the top down. 

[tim johnson]

Put the top halfway up and stop. Go back and zip up window (easy to do because you will have a lot of slack) then complete raising the top.
Always worked for me.