Convertible (soft) top 64

[Robert K.]

I have an original numbers matching 1964 Vette Roadster; the top is in fair to midland condition one small tear in an X about 1" big and the the cross bar over the rear window with the rope in it; the stiching has rotted away, but the material is OK. also a few quarter inch cracks at the front over the door each side at the fold about 1" wide.

1) The Vinyl shop said it cannot be repaired, I can live with the small cracks over the door windows 1" wide, can it be repaired?

2) He gave me a price of $750.00 to replace $400.00 for the top and 350.00 for the labor, this price does not include any rubber replacement, good price or?

[Mike M.]

Re: Convertible (soft) top 64

i just did the top on our 55 with an al knock top and i also had a copy of a video he has available. its a job that originates on the threshold of hell.i think 350 for labor is a good deal. is he gonna use an al knock top or fabricate one from scratch? al's are less than 400 bucks.John Kennedy's tops are made from scratch and the fit is incredible.john's contact info is on page 2 of your Restorer. mike

[Alan D.]

Re: Convertible (soft) top 64

I'll second what Mike said! And stress you get a top from those recommended only. Take many pictures of your top since there are not many left and even the best are not perfect.

[Gary C.]

Re: Convertible (soft) top 64

Robert, "fair to middling" not midland refers to quality grading of cotton. Like you I thought for years it was midland but was corrected by a cotton farmer in west Texas. Thought you might enjoy the the definition. Gary....

http://www.oldandsold.com/articles04/textiles5.shtml

[Tom S.]

Re: Convertible (soft) top 64

I got a price this week of $350.00 to install a new top on my 65. That must be the going rate. The lady did not know anything about the washing instruction tab or date stamps? I geuss she will let me get my own top and she will install it! Tom

[Mike M.]

Re: Convertible (soft) top 64

guys: i apologize as i mis-read the initial post. i thought it referred to a 1954, not 64 top. the midyear tops from al fit real well and aren't all that difficult to install. its the 53-5 that are a bitch on wheeels.mike

[Alan D.]

Re: Convertible (soft) top 64

Do a little search on Al Knock & John Kennedy's tops. There are some options which you might consider. The past discussions have some very knowledgeable comments (way beyond me)
I'm assuming you may have car judged in future.

[Robert K.]

Re: Convertible (soft) top 64

i just did the top on our 55 with an al knock top and i also had a copy of a video he has available. its a job that originates on the threshold of hell.i think 350 for labor is a good deal. is he gonna use an al knock top or fabricate one from scratch? al's are less than 400 bucks.John Kennedy's tops are made from scratch and the fit is incredible.john's contact info is on page 2 of your Restorer. mike

he look them up on the Internet and I chose the original one with the fabric feel, window wash instructions on the rear window and some factory tag that your supposed to take off or washes off maybe paper.

I'll ask about the name brand.

also he's not replacing any rubber....

Thanks for the heads up!

[Robert K.]

Re: Convertible (soft) top 64

Thanks, for everyones input I think I have a grip on it now, I'll do a follow up when it's done after my daughters wedding.....broke now....

[Alan D.]

Re: Convertible (soft) top 64

Robert,
Not sure where you are going with car, will it restored for judging?
If judging then you'll need the logo/date on the rear window & correct "paper" tag correctly attached (protect with a plastic bag when on the road)

Where did installer find on Internet??? If members know that then they may have some comments on top relative to judging. No sense in spending a decent amount of money only to find you need to spend it again to do right! Now I just may be worried about nothing.