What is the best place to get a new top and rear glass from for a 67 skylark conv ? I am sure there are some NOT to buy, Gary
Contact Robbins or Electron for dealers in your area. I like Electron. Those two are the top of the line. Then then shop on line to compare with a dealers's quote. The price installed is what counts.
I have been getting quotes anywhere from $800-$2000 of coarse the service is not the same either. Shopping sucks
Thanks guys, i am looking to buy it and then i have someone who will install it. i have done some web searches but am not sure what is good and what is junk. Gary
The top is one thing, and where you have it installed is another. Use an established, reputable shop. I had a top put on several years ago, and it looked a little off around the back window so I took it back expecting an adjustment was necessary. It only looked a little different, not really very bad at all. The owner said the installer had done something wrong with the install, and he REPLACED the top with a new one. I never knew exactly what was wrong, but the the shop owner never batted an eye. I was impressed.
http://www.electrontop.com/ http://www.robbinsautotopco.com/index.php Use the best top manufactuer sites above to ID potential installers in your area. As an authorized dealer, they will get a big discount on the top that you will not get. Do not buy the top yourself. Then ask for references and ask around at car shows.
Agree with Jim about Electron top, and their prefered installers. Probably your best bet, in my opinion I do not like Kee tops...Neither did the installer. Later had problem with plastic rear panel to replace rear glass style that I broke (non stock style for 68-72, but available from Kee, and they would NOT go to bat to correct it. CAVEAT EMPTOR)
Just had a new top put on a couple of months ago. The guy I used only installed Electron tops since he said that they fit the best and they were the top of the line top. He did a great job on mine and I paid $1900 with all new rubber trim around as well. Could have probably gotten it done cheaper, but used a reputable shop that was in business for quite some time. Brian
A lite reply. When I got my 72 Skylark Convert 3 years ago the paperwork included a LifeTime Warranty for the top from JC Whitney! It was installed by a guy in Oregon Missouri in 1988. I may try to collect some day. Art
I have installed my own and it's not a bad job after doing a couple. That being said I would not advise someone to tackle the job. The last one I had done cost 1100 bucks ( not including top and parts). The problem is once you get the top off most tack stripes need rebuilt and the floating style bow in the back (68-72) is a bit of work. However I have found the best solution is for the repair is to get rid of all the paper in it. clean the grove (make any repairs needed) prime and then fill it with a Urethane (windshield urethane works well) level it off with a credit card or spreading object. Let it dry over night ( or a couple days) whatever it takes. You now have a permanent water proof tack strip that will last forever. Less work and a better repair. Another main point is to make sure the rear binding on the Rear top doesn't go but 2-3 inches past seem. if it does it will rip the top when putting it down and lift the staples and trim cap. Galvanized or stainless staples are also over looked.
