Convertible Top Issues
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Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 75
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From: Laurel MD
Convertible Top Issues
Hey guys! About a year ago I had the rear window on my '98 convertible pop out. After some searching around the forum I decided to employ the "rhino glue" stop-gap measure and it worked like a charm! Unfortunately, I've just recently been informed that the window has once again popped out. Given the age of the top, I've decided to install a new one and be done with it. I have a few questions.
Is it better to go with the dealer on this purchase, or would purchasing a top "made to OEM specs" suffice? The price difference seems to be pretty extreme, and I'm concerned that it'll be reflected in the quality. People seem to have had good experiences with Zip-Corvettes' tops.
Also, would a capable DIYer have any trouble installing the top? Or is it better to get it done by a professional?
Lastly, can I reuse my old headliner? Or is it better to get a new one while I'm at it?
Thanks a bunch!
Is it better to go with the dealer on this purchase, or would purchasing a top "made to OEM specs" suffice? The price difference seems to be pretty extreme, and I'm concerned that it'll be reflected in the quality. People seem to have had good experiences with Zip-Corvettes' tops.
Also, would a capable DIYer have any trouble installing the top? Or is it better to get it done by a professional?
Lastly, can I reuse my old headliner? Or is it better to get a new one while I'm at it?
Thanks a bunch!
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 13,760
Likes: 75
From: Haymarket VA
Robbins makes a top that is vastly superior to the OEM.
Of all the DIY advice on this forum and elsewhere the best advice on a top replacement is find a professional to do it.
http://www.robbinsautotopco.com/index.php
There is a list of recommended installers on their site.
Of all the DIY advice on this forum and elsewhere the best advice on a top replacement is find a professional to do it.
http://www.robbinsautotopco.com/index.php
There is a list of recommended installers on their site.
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 17,753
Likes: 3,688
From: The Sunshine State
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Robbins makes a top that is vastly superior to the OEM.
Of all the DIY advice on this forum and elsewhere the best advice on a top replacement is find a professional to do it.
http://www.robbinsautotopco.com/index.php
There is a list of recommended installers on their site.
Of all the DIY advice on this forum and elsewhere the best advice on a top replacement is find a professional to do it.
http://www.robbinsautotopco.com/index.php
There is a list of recommended installers on their site.
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 13,760
Likes: 75
From: Haymarket VA
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 17,753
Likes: 3,688
From: The Sunshine State
2022 C5 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2021 C5 of the Year Finalist - Modified
C7 of the Year - Modified Finalist 2021
Finalist 2020 C7 of the Year -- Modified
2020 C5 of the Year Finalist - Modified
C5 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
2018 C5 of Year Finalist
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Race Director
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 13,760
Likes: 75
From: Haymarket VA
I don't know but mine's about 4 years old and holding fine. Give them a call. They have a GREAT reputation.
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 10,477
Likes: 4
From: lockport n.y
Robbins makes a top that is vastly superior to the OEM.
Of all the DIY advice on this forum and elsewhere the best advice on a top replacement is find a professional to do it.
http://www.robbinsautotopco.com/index.php
There is a list of recommended installers on their site.
Of all the DIY advice on this forum and elsewhere the best advice on a top replacement is find a professional to do it.
http://www.robbinsautotopco.com/index.php
There is a list of recommended installers on their site.
good luck
Pro
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 667
Likes: 10
From: New York
vette top
this happen to me as I was looking to get the glass repaired I was told that I had to replace the whole top, and it was very expensive.I'm sorry that I did not go that rout I got the glass glued on. now my top is in need of replacement. I had one glazer tell me that he would break 
my rear glass and have my insurance take care of the damage. that would require the insurance to pay for the convertible top (the glass comes with it) and labor if you have glass coverage maybe you can look into that
my rear glass and have my insurance take care of the damage. that would require the insurance to pay for the convertible top (the glass comes with it) and labor if you have glass coverage maybe you can look into that
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,877
Likes: 1
From: Ok! So you don't believe in conspiracies, but will you acknowledge the possibility of there being coordinated activities in secret places? Texas
I had a Robins top installed about 3 years ago, professionally. It was less than $1000 for the top and installation. I had other work done so I don't recall exactly how much it was for just the top. Definitely pay a pro shop to do it. There are many adjustments that have to be made in addition to the fabric install. It's not as simple as it looks.
