Two quick 59 questions...

[Greg L.]

Where can I find the frame's VIN and should it match the body's VIN? ...Or were they serialized independantly?

What year soft tops are correct for a 59? I see various year groupings depending on who is selling. I guess some are correct and some all though not correct will still fit and function??? I figure if I need one I might as well get the correct one.

Does anyone know of some good sources for original or quality repop soft tops?

Thanks.

[Mike E.]

Re: Two quick 59 questions...

Last 5 digits will be the same on both--stamping on frame is to ID it in cast of theft, etc.

soft tops--essentially 56-60 interchange, with some minor differences in weatherstripping and the adjustment of the front piece over the side windows.
61-62 has a split in the rear bow for the rear deck windsplit (and the soft top lid as flatter across the top than is a 56-60. Other than that, it will basically interchange with 56-60.

[Greg L.]

Re: Two quick 59 questions...

Thanks Mike. So where exactly should I find the frame's VIN?

[Mike E.]

Re: Two quick 59 questions...

Underneath your left cheek. No kidding.

[Greg L.]

Re: Two quick 59 questions...

Is it visible with the body on?

[Jack H.]

Re: Two quick 59 questions...

Depends on what condition the frame is in (surface rust) and how good you are with flashlight + inspector's mirror. I'd say the odds you'll be able to clearly read the VIN derivative stamping on a frame of this age with the body on are maybe 5%...

[Greg L.]

Re: Two quick 59 questions...

Well it's supposed to be a Texas car so the frame should be good but I'm sure it will be covered with dirt. I'll be taking my mirror, stainless brush and light so if I know exactly where to look I might get lucky.

Is it on top, the side...side rail, X member?

[Bruce B.]

Re: Two quick 59 questions...

Greg,
The vin which is stamped on the frame should be under your left leg on the top of the frame. Not to much room between the frame and the floor but it is possible to read it.

[Greg L.]

Re: Two quick 59 questions...

Okay thanks guys.

If I can't read it are there any little tell-tale signs to look for so that I'll know if it's the original frame or not? What years use the same frame as the 59?

[Jack H.]

Re: Two quick 59 questions...

Well, if you think the term 'Texas Car' means no rust, think again. First, you have to ask if the car was ALWAYS a Texas car versus having been relocated there by prior owners. That's often the case.

Next, Texas has Gulf of Mexico coast line... If the car spent any appreciable time there, it could be as big a rust bucket as those that were driven on salt embedded winter highways in the midwest! So, keep your eyes wide open when you inspect the car...

[Roy B.]

Re: Two quick 59 questions...

Is it visible with the body on?

56 to 59 soft top frames are the same , pick the carpet up under your left seat area left side and you'll have a rubber plug , if lucky you can see the frame number