Abstract: In automobile convertible tops using a tension cable to stretch the soft top and force the sides of the soft top close to the convertible top frame and weather seal, an improved cable sleeve is provided, wherein the cable sleeve is partitioned to form a narrower channel so as to further limit the movement of the sleeve and the soft top in relation to the tension cable to keep the lower side edges of the soft top downward against the soft top frame to create a better seal, and at the same time enhance the shape of the soft top by keeping it fully stretched and reducing shrinkage and upward movement of the soft top. In addition, by adding an intermediate layer of material to bond the cable sleeve to the soft top, direct stitching of the cable sleeve to the soft top will be avoided, thereby preventing water leakage through the stitching holes and enhancing the appearance of the soft top.

Abstract: A convertible top for an automobile includes a rear window of glass or the like connected to the top by a track linkage adapted to guide the rear window between deployed and stored positions as the top is raised and lowered. The convertible top comprises a fold-down frame supporting a fabric top material, and defining a rear panel with a rear window opening therein. The rear window has a lower margin hingedly connected to the rear panel along a lower edge of the rear window opening. The track linkage includes a pair of track members disposed at the laterally opposite side edges of the rear window and slidably coupled to the rear panel to permit pivoting movement of the rear window within a plane which is independent of the rear panel as the convertible top is raised and lowered.