GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2003 🢒 Corvette 🢒 Body and Accessories 🢒 Roof 🢒 Folding Top Cover Side Tension Cable Replacement

Removal Procedure
  1. Remove the folding top from the vehicle. Refer to Folding Top Replacement .
  2. Remove the weatherstrip and the retainer from the rear side rail. Refer to Folding Top Weatherstrip Retainer Replacement .

    3. Object Number: 784535 Size: SH
  3. Drill out the top cover flap rivets from the rear side rail.
  4. Raise the top cover flap and drill out the tension cable rivet from the rear side rail.

    5. Object Number: 289910 Size: SH
  5. Position the top with the #1 bow and the #5 bow up.

    6. Object Number: 784498 Size: SH
  6. Remove the headliner screw from the #1 bow.

    7. Object Number: 784524 Size: SH
  7. Remove the screw from the tension cable spring end on the #1 bow.

    8. Object Number: 289898 Size: SH
  8. Remove the spring from the end of the tension cable and attach approximately five feet of 16 gauge wire to aid in the installation.
  9. From the rear of the top remove the tension cable, leaving the wire in the top pocket.
  10. Disconnect the tension cable from the wire.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 289898 Size: SH
  1. Remove the spring, attaching the rear of the wire to the spring end of the cable.
  2. Pull the wire forward until the cable is in the proper position. Remove the wire and reinstall the spring.

    3. Object Number: 784524 Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the screw to the tension cable spring end on the #1 bow.

    4. Tighten
    Tighten the screw to 2  N·m (18 lb in).


    Object Number: 784498 Size: SH
  4. Install the headliner screw to the #1 bow

    5. Tighten
    Tighten the screw to 2  N·m (18 lb in).

  5. Rivet the flag end of the tension cable to the back side of the rear side rail.
    6. 5.1. Position the flag roll forward.
    5.2. Use a C rivet or a stainless steel pop rivet.
    5.3. With a ball peen hammer, tap the rivet head flush with the retainer.

    Object Number: 784535 Size: SH
  6. Fold the top cover flap over the rear side rail and rivet place.
  7. Install the rear side weatherstrip retainer and the weatherstrip to the rear side rail. Refer to Folding Top Weatherstrip Retainer Replacement .
  8. Install the folding top to the vehicle. Refer to Folding Top Replacement .