INJECTION MOLDED MAGNESIUM CONVERTIBLE TOP STACK HAVING A COMMON PIVOT FOR A PIVOT LINK, CENTER RAIL AND REAR RAIL

摘要

A convertible top stack linkage (12) is provided that is formed, in part, in a thixotropic magnesium molding process. Many structural parts of the convertible top stack linkage (12) may be thixotropically molded. A pivot link (42) of the top stack linkage (12) is provided connected to two bows, for example, the three (20) and four bows (22) of the top stack. A five bow (24) extends between and is attached to right and left pivot links (42) by right and left pressure links (48), respectively. A pivot link (42) is provided that has a triple pivot connection to a tensioning link (58), a center rail (32) and a rear rail (44). A main spring (54) is secured to a pivot pin (60) and connected to a main pivot bracket (52) on the vehicle to provide a counterbalancing force on the balance link (58) that assists in lifting the top stack linkage (12) as the convertible top is retracted and extended.