Need input: '98 C5 Convertible top replacement
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Joined: May 2004
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From: Peoria AZ
Need input: '98 C5 Convertible top replacement
So I'm getting a new black ragtop from Mid-America for X-mas. The car should look tons better since the "oak" top on it now NEVER looks clean, plus the one time it rained here I did find a small leak through the weatherstripping where the top meets the driver side pillar. I have no idea if I can install it myself, or if I need professional assistance. Any do it yourselfers out there? Or anyone know of a good Phoenix area shop that does these things? Dealership? I'm thinking of getting new weatherstripping as well. Also, the headliner looks brand new, can I re-use it? Thanks for your comments. 
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2000
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From: East Lansing, Mi
I like doing things on my C5 myself and I had to replace my black top on my vert. A friend and I had attempted it once before on his car and ended up going to a local shop which does vehicle upholstery repairs etc. It was just to much of a hassle for our lack of experience. You do not need to replace the liner if it is OK only the top. When I got mine back I found that the old one also had some problems around the window where the fabric had separated from the window so I was glad I replaced it. I did not have to redo my weatherstripping but if part of yours is bad now is the time to do it.
I noticed also when I watched the guy replacing mine that it isn't that easy to get the adjustments from side to side aligned that easy and so I think having a professional do it was a better decision. Good luck-Jim
I noticed also when I watched the guy replacing mine that it isn't that easy to get the adjustments from side to side aligned that easy and so I think having a professional do it was a better decision. Good luck-Jim
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From: Peoria AZ
Thanks...
Originally Posted by JD's C5
I like doing things on my C5 myself and I had to replace my black top on my vert. A friend and I had attempted it once before on his car and ended up going to a local shop which does vehicle upholstery repairs etc. It was just to much of a hassle for our lack of experience. You do not need to replace the liner if it is OK only the top. When I got mine back I found that the old one also had some problems around the window where the fabric had separated from the window so I was glad I replaced it. I did not have to redo my weatherstripping but if part of yours is bad now is the time to do it.
I noticed also when I watched the guy replacing mine that it isn't that easy to get the adjustments from side to side aligned that easy and so I think having a professional do it was a better decision. Good luck-Jim
I noticed also when I watched the guy replacing mine that it isn't that easy to get the adjustments from side to side aligned that easy and so I think having a professional do it was a better decision. Good luck-Jim
Last edited by MOTOV8; Dec 14, 2005 at 01:29 PM.
Pro
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From: Las Cruces New Mexico
My '98 is about due as well. I started the other way. I huntered around for an installer first after hearing a couple DIY horror stories. Found a local guy - The chevy dealerships uses him and talked to folks at the local vette club (I'm not a member). Talked with installer and they recommended a ROBINS top. The one Mid American sells was their second choice. They don't have a problem with either and I can buy it and bring either in for the install. I'll have it done before spring. FWIW
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From: Peoria AZ
So I DON'T have to replace the weatherstripping too? I thought I HAD to. Mine looks great, there's just a little wind-noise above like 75 
, and leaks a little right at the top forward edge of the driver side window when I wash it, or the bi-annual Phoenix rain storm catches me. 
I've contacted Cn'V Corvette's shop & 2 different upholstery shops for quotes on replacing the top ($300, $350, & $450 estimates respectively), and they all told me that if I wanted the weatherstrip changed as well, I had to source it myself. Midway Chevy here in town wants over $740 for the weatherstrip pieces alone, and Mid-America sells them for like $525. I've also emailed forum member Gene at Fred Beans GMC to see if he can help me there. Any guidance or advice is much appreciated, even from you Evil Twin.
, and leaks a little right at the top forward edge of the driver side window when I wash it, or the bi-annual Phoenix rain storm catches me. I've contacted Cn'V Corvette's shop & 2 different upholstery shops for quotes on replacing the top ($300, $350, & $450 estimates respectively), and they all told me that if I wanted the weatherstrip changed as well, I had to source it myself. Midway Chevy here in town wants over $740 for the weatherstrip pieces alone, and Mid-America sells them for like $525. I've also emailed forum member Gene at Fred Beans GMC to see if he can help me there. Any guidance or advice is much appreciated, even from you Evil Twin.
