New and improved version of the Flip Rods. The problematic and breakage prone stress point has been replaced with a ball joint. The picture shows the OEM version in the foreground. A pair of my new and improved version is seen just behind it.
This rod raises the #2 bow as the convertible top is lowered. If this rod is missing or bent the top will fold up short. A symptom of this is that the rear of the convertible top will not clear the rear seat back if they are up.