GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 1998 🢒 Firebird 🢒 Body and Accessories 🢒 Roof 🢒 Folding Top Bow Link Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Object Number: 311072 Size: LH
  1. Lower the folding top to a suitable working position.

    2. Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  3. Turn the pump bypass valve fully clockwise to the open position. Refer to Manual Operation in Folding Top Operation.
  4. Remove the side rail garnish molding. Refer to Frame Replacement.
  5. Remove the outer locknuts from the number 2 bow links (6).
  6. Remove the number 2 bow links (6) from the number 1 bow links (12).
  7. Remove the number 1 bow links (12) from the number one bow (9) by punching out the pins.
  8. Remove the ball stud clips from the front side rail link (11).
  9. Remove the number 2 bow links (6).

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 311072 Size: LH
  1. Install the number 2 bow links (6).
  2. Install the ball stud clip to the front side rail link (5).
  3. Install the number 1 bow links (12) to the number 1 bow (9).

    4. Install the pins.

  4. Install the number 2 bow links (6) to the number 1 bow links (12).

    5. 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.

  5. Install the outer locknuts to the number 2 bow links (6).

    6. Tighten
    Tighten the locknut to 5 N·m 44 lb in).

  6. Install the side rail garnish molding. Refer to Windshield Pillar Garnish Molding Replacement in Interior Trim.
  7. Turn the pump bypass valve fully counter-clockwise to the closed position. Refer to Manual Operation in Folding Top Operation.

    8. Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  8. Connect the negative battery cable.