bondguy

I though the original plexiglas windows on C2 hardtops had some sort of code for the date…seems this one is just a 6/64. Anyone can tell me if this looks like original window on the top. And, can't imagine too many tops out there still have the original Plexi window on them.

66jack

This is what my 66 judging manual says, so I 'assume' its the same for yours...

There should be letters in the lower left and upper right...

H,I,J,K,L IN THE LOWER LEFT

THE "E'S" ARE IN THE UPPER RIGHT

August...H...E
September...I...E
October...J...E
November...K...E
December...L....E

Mike67nv

The window shown in the pic above is characteristic of an early ’65 window stamping. The alpha date coding didn’t start until mid-to-late ’65. An NCRS article and survey found cars built September through November 1964 with “6 - 64” numerical date codes, and cars built December and later with alpha codes.

bondguy

That's what I couldn't understand. I always thought that there was a double letter date code but didn't see one here. Too funny…my car is a 65' built on December 14th of 1964. So while probably not appropriate for my build date it's pretty close. Not getting car judged anyway…just kind of surprised that the plexiglas is in good shape

Mike67nv

I wouldn’t be too quick to say your top is not original. There is usually some variation within surveys and transition dates. Your build date is right on the break point so unless you have other indicators, I would assume it is original.

bondguy

I don't have this top yet...was looking to buy it. Upon further examination, even though the whole top looks nice, there are no front latches at all...can those be added easily and are they expensive? Seems like they would just screw onto the front underside somewhere.

Mike67nv

Although, most of the hardtop components are available through places like Glassworks, they can be pricey. You also might get lucky and find parts on ebay. I wouldn't pay a lot for a hardtop unless it was complete with all the trim pieces.

Glassworks has front latches for $121.00 each: http://www.thehardtopshop.com/parts/...andle-l-h.html

bondguy

I know this is going to be a vague question…but wondering how much a hardtop in good shape should cost me? I know that's like asking how much a Corvette in 1965 should cost and that number can vary a LOT…but, the top without latches has original glass date coded and appears to be in nice shape. The red headliner is that sort of "not super bright" red but the more toned down color which is like the red color of my seats in my car. Paint looks great in pix and even the Plexi looks pretty nice in pics. And, I also saw another top that does have latches but it's not the right color so although paint is in great shape, I would have to get it painted (figure that would be I'm guessing about $400-$500 for a nice repaint)

Mike67nv

I would say that what you’re asking is a decision only you can make, in other words, what you’re willing to pay? I would use the $3300 purchase price of a fully restored hardtop from Glassworks as a benchmark. Then deduct the cost of what needs to be replaced or refurbished. Check out the link below to see what’s included in their price.

http://www.thehardtopshop.com/catego...e-hardtop.html

bondguy

here's the pix

Mike67nv

I guess the real question is what does the seller want for the top and have you seen it in person?

Aside from the obvious missing latches, the second pic indicates at least some of the weather-stripping needs to be replaced. The pic of the plexiglass doesn’t give enough definition to see if it has any crazing or webbing? Pics don’t show the lower side brackets or other hardware. The stainless moldings shown in the pics appear to be in good shape.

Based on needing to paint the top, replace the latches, some weather-stripping and miscellaneous hardware, you could easily sink $1,500 into it. So, is the asking price plus $1,500 an amount you’re willing to pay? Remember, a totally refurbished top from Glassworks would be $3,300.

bondguy

He wants $1,800 plus crate and ship charge…but I agree with you…rubber on front left side is torn…paint may be from a 64 color match so may not be Rally Red…so now you have to paint it (possibly). I can buy another top locally here about 2 hours from me that is white with red interior..rubber looks good in pics but I can drive to see it. At least you know if you have to paint it will match correctly. And, no shipping fees.

midstyle

From the 1965 NCRS manual: Dec '64 would have "D" (for year) in lower left; and "L" (for month) in upper right. But assuming your top would have plexiglas manufactured in November '64, (NCRS says typical dates seen up to 4 months prior to build) would see "K" upper right and "D" lower left. Format changes again for Sept and Oct: 64 (year) and 9 (month = Sept); 10 for Oct. Doesn't say what comes first or where located, so maybe at bottom, like the one you're looking at.

Here's mine on a Aug 2nd '65 produced car. Not the original top but I lucked out with E year (1965) and E month (May). So I can't complain.

bondguy

What is your opinion on this top? Would have to paint it Rally Red…not sure how much that would cost…guessing about $300-$500 (and do they need to remove all chrome or just tape it off and it would look fine)?