1955-57 FLIPPER INSTALLATION AND ALIGNMENT
One of the most difficult and frustrating parts when restoring a hardtop is to properly install the flippers.  Here are a few simple tricks to make it a bit easier.
When installing door flippers on a hardtop, if you do not have the flippers shimmed from the roof line properly, when you close the door the flipper will not pull all the way down (see photo #1 below).  It will also bind and squeeze up tight and scratch the front door stainless (see photo #2 below).
When the flipper is screwed to the roof rail, there is a small arch in it and that is where the problems begin (see photo#3 below).
The way to cure these problems is to use a few small washers on the screws between the flipper and the roof.  One installation required 4 washers on the second and third screw back, three on the first and three on the rear screw.  You may have to install and remove the flipper a few times to get the count right (see photo #4 below).
In addition to using the original rubber strip between the flipper and the roof, you should use a black caulking strip so when you tighten up the screws, the flipper will sit square and work properly (see photo #5 below).
With the flipper shimmed properly, the flipper will pull all the way down and will not bind against the front door stainless (see photos #6a and 6b below).
From the inside with the interior garnish moulding removed, you can see how much shimming may be necessary.  Now pack some of the same caulking in behind the garnish moulding to seal up the flipper and then install the garnish moulding.

Classic Bowtie Connection is providing these instructions for your information only and we accept no liability due to improper workmanship or installation