how do you release the top?

There are four torx bolts that need to be loosened with a torx wrench that should be in the center console. Two of the bolts are in the front, under the sun visors. The other two are in the back of the roof panel going into the B-pillar. Check the Corvette Action Center for more info: http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/1984-1996-corvettes/

Just make sure you are not going 130 down the freeway when you loosen the bolts. Get yourself an owner's manual off eBay if you get a chance and you might find all sorts of good info on the car.