convertible tops?
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jun 2022
Posts: 482
Likes: 202
convertible tops?
I've done a good bit of reading here about convertible top installs and suppliers. Some say Al Knoch is the best, others that his quality has slipped. I have personally used Kee tops in the past. So what are everyone's opinions of where to buy a new top? I could also use some opinions on where to purchase a new vinyl top for the hardtop?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,115
Likes: 412
From: Washington State
FWIW, I purchased a used hardtop and installed a vinyl kit myself. A hot day, lots of time and care with pencil markings and measurements plus a bit of help from my bride and we installed vinyl ourselves. It came out great. I've had several on the spot cash offers for my hardtop with vinyl. Maybe an option for you? I just bought the kit online. I forget from where.
If you are looking for NCRS type quality, this option might not work for you.
Excellent driver and cruise in quality and it is fantastic.
Scott
If you are looking for NCRS type quality, this option might not work for you.
Excellent driver and cruise in quality and it is fantastic.
Scott
Pro
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 515
Likes: 66
From: Grosse Pte. Mich.
I've done a good bit of reading here about convertible top installs and suppliers. Some say Al Knoch is the best, others that his quality has slipped. I have personally used Kee tops in the past. So what are everyone's opinions of where to buy a new top? I could also use some opinions on where to purchase a new vinyl top for the hardtop?
Last edited by seacliffe301; Aug 17, 2022 at 08:11 AM.
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2021
Posts: 219
Likes: 240
From: Toledo, Ohio
2022 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Mine was manufactured by Haartz. I really like it. Like an earlier poster said, I use Raggtop cleaner one or two times a year followed by Raggtop protectant spray. It may not be the best practice, but my top stays folded most of the summer then up and latched for winter storage. If the mood strikes me to head out for a drive, I’m lazy and don’t want to mess with putting the top down before I leave.
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 3,782
Likes: 1,687
From: Summerville SC
Have you thought about having a local top fabricator in your area do the work? It might be nice to have a NAME BRAND top on your car, but it also might be nice to 1)support a local company and 2) have a place to go if there are any issues in the future. Full disclosure : I am a retired local fabricator ( for boat canvas, not autos) and a lot of customers appreciated the time and effort that we put into their toys. It might initially be cheaper buying a top and doing the install but if you have an issue, who do you bring the car to? Just some random thoughts. 
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jun 2022
Posts: 482
Likes: 202
Have you thought about having a local top fabricator in your area do the work? It might be nice to have a NAME BRAND top on your car, but it also might be nice to 1)support a local company and 2) have a place to go if there are any issues in the future. Full disclosure : I am a retired local fabricator ( for boat canvas, not autos) and a lot of customers appreciated the time and effort that we put into their toys. It might initially be cheaper buying a top and doing the install but if you have an issue, who do you bring the car to? Just some random thoughts.
