Installation Tips for 1999-2002 Corvette Hardtop Partition
By Chris Johnson (chrisj)
Click on images to see larger versions.
These tips are meant to augment the instructions supplied with a Z06PARTS INC. partition. Disclaimer: You perform this operation at your own risk. No claims are made that the information contained in this article is accurate, complete or that it will not damage you and/or your automobile. The information contained herein is strictly for educational purposes.
Start with a partition.
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| Here is my partition. Black carpet on the back and black vinyl on the front. |
Tools required: Drill, Drill Bit - 7/64" (one size less than 1/8"), and Phillips Screwdriver #2. Rivet gun is optional.
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This is the partition being slid in through the trunk. Note the masking tape over the Velcro. |
1. Prep the partition by applying masking tape over the Velcro (found on the bottom edge of the partition) or by laying newspaper or poster board down in the car. This will allow the partition to move around freely.
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This picture is taken from the passengers seat. |
2. Slide the partition into the car and position it in the opening. In the picture you can see how it fits nicely in the opening. The curves fit over what looks like the wheel well. It should line up just behind the rear window. Make sure to position it as close to vertical and as far back as possible for the best fit.
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This picture is taken from the floor of the trunk. You can see both the trunk opening and the partition. |
3. Locate the metal cross brace under the rear edge of the trunk. Pull the Velcro straps tight (they should be on the trunk side of the car) and position them on the metal cross brace. Mark them for drilling.
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Take care to cover the rear of the car. Could help prevent ugly scratches. |
4. I was told that a 90 degree drill bit would easily allow for the drilling to be done from outside the car. If that is not available to you and you are nervous about drilling into your new car (as I was) elicit someone else to help you out. I had my younger brother help me with the drilling.
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Be careful with the metal shavings from the drilling. |
5. There is room to crawl into the trunk and position the drill on the cross brace. Crawling in will allow for the hole to be drilled at an appropriate angle. Again, this is possible to do with a 90 degree drill bit, or if you are tall enough to lean into the trunk opening.
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Finished snap installed with a screw. |
6. After the holes are drilled, install the male portion of the snap with the screws or rivets. **NOTE** The straps on newer models are shorter than the ones shown. As a result, your placement may differ slightly. Measure carefully before you drill!
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1999 partition and cover in a 2002 Z06. Mismatched to emphasize placement. |
7. Remove the tape from the Velcro and realign. Pull the snaps tight, stand back and admire your work. Here the partition is darker to match the 1999 interior carpet color. The contrast allows you to easily see where it should fit. Also shown is the center trunk cover. I made sure the base of the partition lined up with the trunk cover. This was a personal choice. Z06PARTS INC. recommends a small overlap to make the partition as vertical as possible.
8. There should be a .5-.625" gap across the top of the partition. This gap is for the air to flow from in interior of the car to the rear vent which allows the doors to close easily. The partition should also fit with a rear cargo mat installed. (See the picture in 2.)
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Hooked already. |
9. Don't forget to let your helper out of the trunk and snap a few pictures. And then reward them for the help and dedication.
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| Below are pictures of my finished trunk. Also shown are the optional side covers from Z06PARTS INC. All of these are finished in 2002 carpet color to match my car. This really gives the trunk a much more finished look - very factory looking. Use of the side covers does necessitate relocating the air compressor kit to the center well. These pictures were taken on a cloudy day with the car parked under cover. | ||
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