Time for a new top.

[lasuvidaboy]

I'm having a new cloth top installed next month and had a question. My top/upholstery shop said there are two sections of the convertible top-the top portion and the section w/the glass window which are priced separately. The glass-window section looks almost new so I am thinking that he can re-use that section. Has anyone chosen to re-use that portion of the top when having a new top installed?

[Markies]

Re: Time for a new top.

I have not had a convertible top on a T-Bird done, BUT, I suspect that canvas is like leather and vinyl, in that no two dye lots are exactly alike. There is a distinct possibility the old canvas white will not match the new white exactly. Possibly your shop can reuse the window.
Mark

[SixPac]

Re: Time for a new top.

I doubt that Bruce has a white convertible soft top. We had a 2002 WW that had a black soft top and I believe that was the only choice.

Somebody correct me if I'm wrong.

[007Cruiser]

Re: Time for a new top.

I also suspect that you would end up with a mismatch. How much would you save?

[lasuvidaboy]

Re: Time for a new top.

I also suspect that you would end up with a mismatch. How much would you save?

The rear window section for the (black) cloth top is an additional $500.00. When I replaced the off-white vinyl convertible top on my '75 Pontiac Grandville a few years ago, I elected to keep the 10-year-old glass section which has a section of vinyl below the window. It did not match the new top perfectly so when a new top went on last January, I had the shop replace both sections and it looks beautiful. The glass section on the Grandville was far less expensive than the defroster equipped TBird glass window. If dye lot differences are an issue on the black cloth, then I may have to order both sections.

[00mustng]

Re: Time for a new top.

....Haartz supplied the top....no harm in trying a match.....if it doesn't look good...order the remaining section....

[lasuvidaboy]

Re: Time for a new top.

Thanks for the responses.

[5bird7]

Re: Time for a new top.

Bruce I would think that the difference in coloration would be due to sunlight fade on the cloth on the old portion.

[lasuvidaboy]

Re: Time for a new top.

Bruce I would think that the difference in coloration would be due to sunlight fade on the cloth on the old portion.

Thanks Dot, I'll have the shop order the top from the original source and compare the differences. The section (still looks fairly new) I am thinking about saving has a small section of cloth material just below the rear window.

[Gobird]

Re: Time for a new top.

Bruce, Question, I have the same year car as yours and my top still looks very good but it was always garaged. What happened to yours to need replacing?

[lasuvidaboy]

Re: Time for a new top.

Bruce, Question, I have the same year car as yours and my top still looks very good but it was always garaged. What happened to yours to need replacing?

It's starting to fray (w/white inner liner showing slightly) at the edges near both doors. Also, on the passenger side there is a sight 'pucker' where the top meets the door. That 'pucker' has been there for at least 5-years and once the frayed edges appeared, I decided that I want a replacement. I think that 10-years is a great run for a convertible top. We have replaced the vinyl top on our 1975 Pontiac every 5-6 years or so.

[jerrym3]

Re: Time for a new top.

The top on my Galaxie was installed in the late 70's. The glass rear window is the same one that was on the car when I bought it in 1969.

Top's not in the greatest shape, but doesn't leak as long as I drive slowly in the rain (assuming I even get caught in rain).

Car can't take another top unless I find a replacement front bow.

[Ediron]

Re: Time for a new top.

My top is showing wear threads popping etc. but mine is outside and has a tan top which gets washed every so often with bleach and water due to S.fl. mold. When not being used I cover the top with a plastic table cloth and than the car cover. It seems to help with the mildew some what. When I do replace it I'll PM Bradford to find out how his new top is. At that time everything will be replaced.

[ALBERT]

Re: Time for a new top.

hi, what is the cost of the replacement with the window new as opposed to just the top?

[Ediron]

Re: Time for a new top.

Bradford paid $1200 for a new vinyl top complete with window.a canvas would have cost $300 more. Remember this is in S.Fl. labor is usually cheaper.