Installing a soft top on a hard top only 59

[Greg L.]

Is it a big job to install a soft top onto a hard top only 59? I'm wondering if this is something that is basically a bolt on process with the parts easy to obtain or if it requires alot of labor and expense?

[Jim H.]

Re: Installing a soft top on a hard top only 59

You need the long brace which goes behind the seat next to the gas tank. This brace usually is not on hardtop only cars.

[Howard M.]

Re: Installing a soft top on a hard top only 59

Greg:
You will need a good original frame (not a repro) to achieve the best fit and adjustment. You will also need the support and inner & outer mounting brackets on each side (6 pcs total) that go on the seat back partition. You need the rear deck latches and you will have to cut out the rear deck to mount the latches.
By the time you get through with the frame refurb, cloth installation, brackets and latches, you'll spend around $3500.
Hal

[Steven B.]

Re: Installing a soft top on a hard top only 59

Greg, the hardtop only lids don't seem as common as the two top lids. I would buy a good used lid with the holes already cut for the soft top latches and use it while saving the original. 'Just my opinion as I always like to be able go back to original.

[Edward M.]

Re: Installing a soft top on a hard top only 59

Greg, the hardtop only lids don't seem as common as the two top lids. I would buy a good used lid with the holes already cut for the soft top latches and use it while saving the original. 'Just my opinion as I always like to be able go back to original.

What he said!

[Chuck L.]

Re: Installing a soft top on a hard top only 59

I had the same situation with a 62 hardtop only car. By the time I priced out all the stuff, original frame from Sully's in CA or repro from Coffman, plus the brackets/hardware and a top lid all ready for two tops, plus all the labor involved ,it was much more than $3500 and this was at 1995 prices! Just thought you need to be sure and look at all costs first. I kept mine as original and got a hardtop hoist for the garage for $39.95.

[Greg L.]

Re: Installing a soft top on a hard top only 59

Thanks guys. That is pretty much what I wanted to know so now I see that making a soft top car out of a hard top only car probably isn't worth the time and effort.