Convertible top installation

[StangLover159]

I have an 89 bare bones vert that i recieved recently. It needs tons of tlc, and one of the first problems i'm adressing is that it needs a new top. I've looked aorund online and local places for prices. Online I can get a top w/warranty for 200, but if i get it professionally done it will cost me 600+ my question is why does it cost soooo much to install? I am willing to put extra time and effort into this if it will save me 400 bucks, but every1 i've talked to makes it sound completely impossible to do on your own. I am trying to do all i can myself to save money since this car needs so much work, and if theres any possible way i can do the top myself i'd love to hear it!!! thanks

 

[freakintiger]

If you dont have any upholstery expierience I wouldnt try it. I am skilled as a journeyman shoe repairman, and I've worked in both auto and furniture upholstery shops. I also have a conv.('93)and have only thought about the possibility of installing it myself. If you don't already have some idea of how to install one (like watching the process completed by a competent auto upholsterer)I would'nt try it. It' not rocket science but you won't know all the tricks a pro knows. If you have a kindly old upholsterer in town you might learn from him, like some old school guy who does'nt mind teaching. Or you might find a book on it, or even a video, search the web. Hope this helps, I don't want to pay a fortune for a new top either!