Convertible Top Replacement Options
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,103
Likes: 472
From: Newark Delaware
Convertible Top Replacement Options
The Light Oak top on my '99 Mag Red convertible has served well for almost 13 years but is time to be retired. I've checked out all the major Corvette suppliers and convertible top suppliers on the web and it looks as though OEM spec Twillfast II tops can be had for between $500 and $600, Stayfast tops for around $500-$550, and Robbins Twillfast II for $650 (these are all with either free shipping or shipping costs entered in).
Also, I have had quotes from two local installers. A Corvette specialty shop will do it for $1,000 for labor, extra for the top if they have to obtain it. A local convertible top shop will do it for $1,450, including labor and a Robbins top (although it was not specified whether it was Twillfast or Stayfast).
Who has replaced theirs recently and has some words of wisdom?
Also, I have had quotes from two local installers. A Corvette specialty shop will do it for $1,000 for labor, extra for the top if they have to obtain it. A local convertible top shop will do it for $1,450, including labor and a Robbins top (although it was not specified whether it was Twillfast or Stayfast).
Who has replaced theirs recently and has some words of wisdom?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,369
Likes: 73
From: The line waiting to see Santa Claus stretched all the way back to Terre Haute, and I was at the end, Indiana
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15-'16-'17-'18
I'm looking at replacing the white top on my wife's '01 in a couple of months. There's only one place around that does it, and he will "cut me a deal" for cash and "only" charge me $850-$900 labor ($1100 on the books) to install a new one. I haven't found any good quality tops for less than $500 shipped, so it looks like your pricing is correct, and we're both looking at $1400 for the job.
Racer
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 443
Likes: 101
From: Jackson CA.
Just did mine!
I had mine done a couple weeks ago. My installer preferred Robbins twillfast tops. Paid $550 shipped. Installation was $750. A few forum members chimed in with cheaper install prices, but I had three bids all between $700-$800. I believe it has a lot to do with where you live.
I went from oak to black, really like the change. Here are before and after pics. Good luck.
I went from oak to black, really like the change. Here are before and after pics. Good luck.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,103
Likes: 472
From: Newark Delaware
Where did you order the top from? I've not found the Robbins Twillast for less than $600.
I had mine done a couple weeks ago. My installer preferred Robbins twillfast tops. Paid $550 shipped. Installation was $750. A few forum members chimed in with cheaper install prices, but I had three bids all between $700-$800. I believe it has a lot to do with where you live.
I went from oak to black, really like the change. Here are before and after pics. Good luck.
I went from oak to black, really like the change. Here are before and after pics. Good luck.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,409
Likes: 34
From: St. Louis Missouri
I recently replaced mine a little over a year ago. I did the same as you are thinking and bought the Top myself and had a Shop install it. I think your labor quote of $1000.00 is a little on the high side. I was quoted between $400-500 for labor from 5 different Shops here in STL. I went with the quote from the Shop that did most of the Top installs for a local Chevrolet Dealer and it cost $400 in Labor.
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 1,454
Likes: 6
From: Pittsburgh PA
I'll be watching this thread since mine has some wear showing. I know this is probably a job best suited for a pro but has anyone done it themselves? Is there any information out there detailing the process?
Racer
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 443
Likes: 101
From: Jackson CA.
After mine was installed I was informed pretty good "how to" in service manual. I own a set but have not checked on the instructions. Most forum comments say go professional. One of the few jobs you cannot find a "how to" in the search section.
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 1,454
Likes: 6
From: Pittsburgh PA
Auction site from a dealer in SOCAL.
After mine was installed I was informed pretty good "how to" in service manual. I own a set but have not checked on the instructions. Most forum comments say go professional. One of the few jobs you cannot find a "how to" in the search section.
After mine was installed I was informed pretty good "how to" in service manual. I own a set but have not checked on the instructions. Most forum comments say go professional. One of the few jobs you cannot find a "how to" in the search section.
Thanks, I have the set also and I'll check that out.
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