Replacement Convertible Top Recommendations Needed
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Feb 2020
Posts: 16
Likes: 3
From: Alpharetta, GA
Replacement Convertible Top Recommendations Needed
I have a 1971 black convertible with black interior. It currently has a convertible top that is in pretty good shape (no tears with a clear back plastic window), but the stitching has become brittle and is starting to rip.
My first choice is to re-stitch the existing top at a very good local marine canvas shop that also has automotive clients too. If I do replace the existing top, where should I purchase a good quality black replacement?
Thanks for your input!
My first choice is to re-stitch the existing top at a very good local marine canvas shop that also has automotive clients too. If I do replace the existing top, where should I purchase a good quality black replacement?
Thanks for your input!
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 2,474
Likes: 755
From: Laporte, IN
Al Knoch ask for the Kennedy designed top and the original front header windlace. The Kennedy design give you more material for better fitment and the windlace is smaller diameter for a more original look and better fitment.
Team Owner
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 53,600
Likes: 5,590
From: Plantation Florida USAF(Retired) 1966-1990
U.S. Air Force
St. Jude Donor '05 thru '26
NCM Sinkhole Donor
If you want to it right, do with Al, his products are top notch from upholstery to tops.
I have used them on my C4, can't beat them.
http://www.alknochinteriors.com
I have used them on my C4, can't beat them.
http://www.alknochinteriors.com
Last edited by 1bdvet; Jun 3, 2020 at 11:11 AM.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Feb 2020
Posts: 16
Likes: 3
From: Alpharetta, GA
Thanks Veteran! I recently sold another toy and am now building my next round of updates plan.
I see that your bio states you are in Plantation, FL. I went to Plantation HS while they were finishing Piper HS and remember your area well!
I see that your bio states you are in Plantation, FL. I went to Plantation HS while they were finishing Piper HS and remember your area well!
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 44,627
Likes: 1,826
From: Huntsville AL
As others have said Al Knoch, don't scrimp in this area. Also, if someone says just bring me the frame and I will replace the top walk away because it will never fit correctly. If a vendor doesn't install convertible tops for a living walk away.
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Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 23,363
Likes: 1,059
From: Virginia USA
That's where I got mine based on reputation and It is good quality. I went with cloth instead of vinyl.
Edit - Use wood based tack strips. The plastic ones floating around for sale will not hold the staples very long/well.
Edit - Use wood based tack strips. The plastic ones floating around for sale will not hold the staples very long/well.
Last edited by theandies; Jul 10, 2021 at 04:20 PM.
Drifting
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,787
Likes: 261
From: Blue Bell PA
2018 C3 of Year Finalist
Buy al Kotches dvd ,his top and strips. Follow everything he says you won’t be disappointed.
the back window will not pass judging but that’s not important.
the back window will not pass judging but that’s not important.
Last edited by JBrooke825; Jul 10, 2021 at 05:37 PM.
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 44,627
Likes: 1,826
From: Huntsville AL
This.... I did this on my 65, watched the dvd about 10 times than said lets hit the garage and go do this. Turned out great.