My Winter Project - Hardtop
Thread Starter
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 30,995
Likes: 99
From: Ontario
My Winter Project - Hardtop
Picked this up today and it is in pretty fine condition. The interior and exterior colors are wrong but I will take care of that during the winter. New dye and paint can do wonders. Latches and weatherstripping are somewhat dated but really do not need to be replaced. So the winter fun will begin soon...actually it has already. That center rear pin is now history.
Last edited by Paul L; Nov 13, 2012 at 03:56 PM.
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 10,977
Likes: 19
From: Canboro Ontario
Paul, got yourself a nice one to work with. I restored mine for the 64 last year. I do like the look of the hard tops on the verts, it gives them a sexy look, IMHO. Have fun and show us how it turns out.
Thread Starter
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 30,995
Likes: 99
From: Ontario
I have already been working on the details. I don't know how long I will use it each year but it was one of those "have to have" things. As winter approaches each year I have one of my moods. This was it for 2012-13. No harm done. It will be a nice option for a new owner, even as a garage wall ornament as some people say. But I do plan to use it in May and September.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 6,842
Likes: 285
From: Palmdale CA
Thread Starter
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 30,995
Likes: 99
From: Ontario
Last edited by Paul L; Nov 13, 2012 at 07:53 PM.
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Thread Starter
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 30,995
Likes: 99
From: Ontario
I got this one within Canada. And you know how money that saves! I am betwixt and between on a paint or black vinyl finish. The latter is $$$$s. But it sure looks pretty! Credit for pic from a few days ago. I can't remember who??
Last edited by Paul L; Nov 13, 2012 at 08:01 PM.
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 10,977
Likes: 19
From: Canboro Ontario
Your call, on the finish, but I think with your paint color, that the black vinyl would look nice. Be sure you get someone who can match all the vinyl stiching and hems. Also you don't have to worry about paint chips. Good luck, either way.
Thread Starter
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 30,995
Likes: 99
From: Ontario
The top is in a heated basement. My garage is not heated. That is where my DD sits (18*F tonight). I have already done a few minor things on the weatherstripping (very nice condition but you know me) and I will fool with the latche handles tomorrow. But the top is 90% plus, aside from the colors. But you know me, I make things happen. And I will. Great to hear from you!
Any memories?
Last edited by Paul L; Nov 13, 2012 at 09:14 PM.
Racer
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 415
Likes: 10
From: Richmond Va
Be careful when you take the side pillars out. They are held on to the top liner only by two studs w/ nuts and they will tear very easily if you are not careful. There is a cardboard type flange that the studs go through. I ripped both of mine and ended up making a metal flatbar piece to help w/ future installs and removal.
Thread Starter
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 30,995
Likes: 99
From: Ontario
Memories ?? that sure was/ still is a great car, one of my favorites and I have owned plenty of 'em over the yrs. I had a lot of fun with it and I know you do also. Lookin' forward to seeing your work re: the new top !!
Here is my mom with it, she was maybe only 82 then, she is still going strong at age 89!!
Here is my mom with it, she was maybe only 82 then, she is still going strong at age 89!!
Pro
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 556
Likes: 13
From: C3 Forum, Colorado
Something to consider.
I agree that vinyl covered hard tops look great on the C3. But if it were me I think I'd paint it the body color of your car.
The reason I say that is because it gives you the option to change your cars appearance since your soft top is already black.
It's kind of like having 2 cars in one.
The reason I say that is because it gives you the option to change your cars appearance since your soft top is already black.
It's kind of like having 2 cars in one.
Last edited by qtlow; Nov 14, 2012 at 07:41 AM.
