Color of Convertible Top

[Anthony D.]

We have a red 66 convertible with black vinyl interior. The car had a beige top when we bought it. The top is not correct in terms of date and stitching.
We are going to replace the top with an Al Knock product.
My questions / concerns are:
Does it matter what color we choose, as long as it is black, white or beige?
Is there a way to determine what color the top originally was?

[James W.]

Re: Color of Convertible Top

Anthony,

Without the original window sticker, shipper order or ability to speak with the original owner there will be no way to determine the original top color for your Corvette. As you probably already know the three convertible top colors could be ordered with any exterior color. A little advice when ordering your top from Al Knoch is this;

1. Specify a convertible top that was made using John Kennedy's pattern
2. Order at least one or two extra top header windlace kits. Your top installer may go through at least one or two before he gets the proper end tucks correct for judging IF you ever plan to have the car flight judged.

Hope this helps.


Regards,

James West

[Anthony D.]

Re: Color of Convertible Top

Thanks James, I have ordered a few windlace kitsWhat is the difference between the "Original" and the "Kennedy" Pattern?

[James W.]

Re: Color of Convertible Top

The Kennedy top is cut with more material so that it fits better at the top of the side windows. John Kennedy's top is made from an original C2 Corvette top that John dissected and "patterned" during his many years in the upholstery business.

Thanks James, I have ordered a few windlace kitsWhat is the difference between the "Original" and the "Kennedy" Pattern?

[Bob R.]

Re: Color of Convertible Top

I installed an Al Knoch tan top on my 63 a year ago and during judging I was told the trim grain was not correct and I was told the interior color of the tan top is supposed to be tan I got dinged a couple of points. Something you may want to consider if you are having the car judged. I did notice the trim grain on the white top and black top is different more like a leather grain.

[Anthony D.]

Re: Color of Convertible Top

That a bit of new information. The JG states the interior soft tops are all black.I ordered a tan top... Judging is set for October.

[Harry S.]

Re: Color of Convertible Top

A picture is worth a 1000 words, original 63 tan top on a black car.

[Wayne W.]

Re: Color of Convertible Top

But he has a 66. I think that changed later.