1967 Covertible Top Replacement

[Kirk M.]

I am planning on replacing my 1967 convertible top this summer. I will be using Al Knoch. Can someone tell me exactly what I need to get the most authentic NCRS-style top from AL? In other words, exactly what do I want to order. Thanks.


Kirk

[Bill I.]

Re: 1967 Covertible Top Replacement

Kirk, by all means, be guided by their advise. They are the pro's. Bill

[Chris E.]

Re: 1967 Covertible Top Replacement

My understanding is the only different PARTS you need to order from Al Knoch is the correct size windlace (the front most weatherstripping piece that you can see from the OUTSIDE of the car). I think that is an additional $30 or so.

Others can chime in to make sure I'm not off base here. I'm not far behind you, I'll be ordering a 67 white top soon.

[Chuck G.]

Re: 1967 Covertible Top Replacement

I am planning on replacing my 1967 convertible top this summer. I will be using Al Knoch. Can someone tell me exactly what I need to get the most authentic NCRS-style top from AL? In other words, exactly what do I want to order. Thanks.


Kirk

Make sure to have the rear window dated with an appropriate date for your car.

Order the entire "kit", which includes pads, etc.

Chuck

[Larry S.]

Re: 1967 Covertible Top Replacement

What about the Kennedy pattern?

[Gerard F.]

Re: 1967 Covertible Top Replacement

Kirk,

All of the above comments, and specifically order the Kennedy pattern. It is supposed to fit the frame a little looser like the originals.

Take a look at that article in the Winter 2007-08 Restorer.

[Kirk M.]

Re: 1967 Covertible Top Replacement

So, here we go just to get it perfectly straight:

1. Order the Kennedy Pattern (not listed so I don't know price but top kit is $280.00)
2. Al Original Date Stamp ($75.00)
3. Al Original Tack Strip ($58.00)
4. Proper 67 Windlace (I do not see this on Al's website as a separate entity - anyone ordered this from Al?)
5. I Assume I should replace the weatherstripping while I'm at it? (Al's weatherstrip kit is $205.00 and the fastener kit is $17.00)
6. I already have an original set of tack strip tips, so I am good there.

Anything else? This is getting a bit scary here - total is $635 already just for materials. Still need to pay for installation! Yikes. Gonna be a bit more than I thought.

Kirk

[Gerard F.]

Re: 1967 Covertible Top Replacement

Kirk,

While you are doing it, don't forget about taking the frame off, and refurb and repaint. Don't beadblast it, it will ruin the smooth finish.

Check for rust on the frame. The front bow over the windshield is the one most susceptible to rust, and repair or replacement. All new weatherstripping would be recommended.

Then there is the front and rear latches.

Check to see that new pads and rear straps come with the kit.

If you are going to do it yourself, get the Al Knock CD video specific to a 67. It is actually a very interesting, although difficult job, to do it yourself. Figure a couple, or 3 weekends as a learning experience.

[Roy B.]

Re: 1967 Covertible Top Replacement

http://www.rowleycorvette.com/corvette_repair3.html

[Kirk M.]

Re: 1967 Covertible Top Replacement

I plan on having it installed for me. Carpet this spring was enough.

Thanks Roy. Great link. I printed it.

Kirk

[Larry S.]

Re: 1967 Covertible Top Replacement

Would someone shoot down or confirm what I'm remembering. I had a 66 Corvette in the 1980's that I ordered a soft top for. I don't remember who made the top, just that it was black vinyl. I swear that it was a one-hour job of installation; it just slipped on over the rear deck bow and header bow, installed the windlace and end stainless, and that was it. No t******* was required, and it fit just fine. Is that those 1960's drugs remaining in my head?