top replacement questions

[philoutch]

Hi Guys,

I need to replace my top (1975 CS1 US), I'd like to buy a black one, nothing new there but I don't know anything about it, any recommendation/advice is very welcome.

What should I take care of when buying ?
Which material ? Vinyl vs Canvas or ...
Which manufacturer ?
Is that hard to install, is there any procedure available ?
Do I need to buy anything else with it ?

THX a lot in advance and sorry for my ignorance

[VAspider]

I did mine back in 2008. Not really difficult, on a scale of 1 to 10 maybe a 6.5. I did most of the install. The only time i needed help was adjusting the tension of the rear channel which is behind the trim above the rear seat. The channel is slotted and the adjustment is needed for the top to be tight against the rear panel. I had someone outside pushing down so I could tighten the channel. The only tiresome part was gluing the fabric around the top frame. I also removed the seats for more room. I went with cloth versus vinyl on my 69. I think it changes the whole appearance for the better.

Frank

[mattyd7]

I did mine this summer since my car came sans top. Bought from Convertible Top Guys, who include a fairly detailed set of instructions. Even without having the old top to learn from and see how it fits, I was able to do it myself. As previous poster said, you will need help with the rear frame. I did it myself and couldn't get it tight enough so had a friend come the next day to redo that part. In general the top only fits one way so it is tough to screw up.

I went with vinyl because I almost never have it up so didn't see the point in paying more for canvas. If it is raining I just don't go out. Only time it is up is at night sometimes right now if it is very cold. That being said, I have seen ones with canvas and it is very nice looking, so if you want the top up somewhat often, maybe it is worth it for you.

[johnsje6]

Replaced mine this year with a vinyl one from Auto Ricambi, it was not too hard, and they will answer your emails promptly if you have questions about installing it. I would highly recommend you wait till you have the new one on hand before you take the old one off, then take photos of some of the more interesting parts, like how the cables are routed and where rivets go before or during the removal process of your old top. That said, it is not too bad to do if you have a helper, can follow instructions, and can drill and replace pop rivets.

[DieselSpider]

The canvas is harder to keep clean then the vinyl especially if you get tree sap on it or frequent dusty areas.

[philoutch]

Thx for the hints guys !

Do I need to change any kind of gasket with it ?

[DieselSpider]

Thx for the hints guys !

Do I need to change any kind of gasket with it ?

The front gasket that seals to the top of the windshield would be a good thing to renew. Mine is cooked. Also you may want to re-wrap the front header with new vinyl while you have the top off as it will be easier with the top off.

[philoutch]

THX a bunch for your help !!!!

[spiderman1]

I am relatively new to my 82 restoration. I want to take off the tope to begin getting ready to paint. Is there a thread on this forum to step by step remove the top?

Thanks,
David

[wizard124]

I am relatively new to my 82 restoration. I want to take off the tope to begin getting ready to paint. Is there a thread on this forum to step by step remove the top?

Thanks,
David

Go here: http://www.fiatspider.com/f15/viewtopic ... 15&t=29004