How to lower convertible top on a '36-'38?

[CarNucopia]

I'm considering buying a Buick convertible from '36, '37 or '38 and have a question. How difficult is it to raise and lower the top? Any car I own I plan to drive, which means putting the top down can't be a prolonged activity. I'm looking at 2-doors and Phaetons, so opinions on both would be very helpful.

 

Thanks.

Edited April 11, 2016 by Buick64C (see edit history)

[DAVES_BUICKS]

It's not a simple job like pushing a button, but one person can do it.  I've had a lot of practice with my '38.  I've attached a copy of the convertible folding top instructions.

[CarNucopia]

 Thanks Dave. It looks pretty straight forward.

[DAVES_BUICKS]

Yes it is, and you can do it yourself.  But if you have a helper around, it goes a lot faster!

[Matt Harwood]

The phaetons/convertible sedans are a bit more of an ordeal and a helper makes a big difference. I found that with practice, I can do it alone by standing in the back seat and pulling it over my head, but it's still a big job. There's a reason most convertible sedan owners never put the tops down. You won't be putting it up in a few seconds in the event of a sudden rain storm--you and the interior are going to get wet.

[trimacar]

Well, how about a 1939 Packard V-12 convertible sedan?  I think you need 5 people, a crane, and a forklift to lower that darn thing.....

[Marty Roth]

On 4/12/2016 at 11:44 AM, Matt Harwood said:

The phaetons/convertible sedans are a bit more of an ordeal and a helper makes a big difference. I found that with practice, I can do it alone by standing in the back seat and pulling it over my head, but it's still a big job. There's a reason most convertible sedan owners never put the tops down. You won't be putting it up in a few seconds in the event of a sudden rain storm--you and the interior are going to get wet.

Actually, with a bit of practice I can get my '37 Roadmaster Phaeton 80C (convertible sedan) top up or down in just a few minutes - but it does take practice since the "B" pillars, and the Roof rails are detachable with wing-bolts