Convertible top replacement questions

[VANWALL]

I have a 94 dark green GT with a tan top. After 10 years it is time for a new top. I have only found one shop in the immediate area that replaces tops. He quoted $ 1000 for vinyl and $1300 for cloth. Both tops include a new glass rear window (no defrost). He claimed that he could not use the existing glass window because the top is bonded to the window.

The prices seem a little high but having never replaced a top I do not know.

Also does anyone have any pro/con on a cloth top. I think they have a softer look than vinyl.

I put the top down a lot during the summer but the car is garaged every night and all winter.

Also if anyone knows a good place in NE Ohio for a top please let me know.

Thanks

 

[jims2321]

Walk away from that guy. The rear glass is not bonded to the top, in fact it is a separate piece called rear window curtain. As for the cloth over the vinyl... Althought the cloth is softer, it might damage easier... also you will most like have to apply a sealer to the cloth more often. My 'vert recently had the top replaced and I decided on vinyl for durablity, but then I live in Florida...

 

[Rootus]

The glass IS bonded to part of the top, along the bottom, so what he said is not strictly wrong, probably just a misunderstanding. In fact, the glass and vinyl seal is usually what fails first on a convertible, so I would never consider replacing the rest of the top without doing the window. It's definitely the minority of the cost.

As for cost, $1000 installed for a new vinyl top is par for the course -- about $750 of that is labor. Choose the shop carefully, because it takes real skill to install a convertible top and have it look good. This is one area I would not skimp on!

Dave

 

[Kdizzite]

My cloth top came out to be about $960 with installation (with defrost). I have had it on for a year and I drive in the winter too, and it has ripped or shown any signs of wear.

 

[law]

I had my stang stolen at the end of last year and they cut my top. I had the work done at the Ford Dealership and they replaced the top itself and the lining but kept the same window I had before. The total cost came out to a little over $1100, came out GREAT though! We all know the dealership charges a lot more so the quote they gave you is not bad. But I would agree that you want to make sure it is a credible shop doing the work and doing it right the first time. Luckily though my insurance covered half!!!

 

[DavidF]

I got a quote for vinyl $800.00 not including window. Here in Ca.

 

[jacob9]

i ordered my top from age classic design. 1-888-521-5273 (they advertise in MM&FF)

94-98 CONVERTIBLE TOP $169.95
94-98 REAR CURATIN W/ GLASS $199.95
SHIPING TO CA, $32.95
TOTAL=402.85

i then called around to get a quote on just the installation. i found a shop that would install it for $350.

it sounds like the shop you went to is overcharging for the parts AND the labor. if you buy your parts cheap and then shop around for a place to install it, you will save alot.

 

[Merkstang]

I was quoted 1600 for the Cloth top with installation! From two shops!!! I am going to buy the top and install it my self! Ive been Learning how to do alot of the stuff modding my car so whats in learning to do the top too... Id just like to find a car to practice on first.... There was one in a junk yard If its still there Ill take the top out and try uninstalling it and reinstalling it and see how I do.

 

[4dStang]

It's not really hard, it just takes two people and patience. I can get a window and top for about $400 and have it installed for $400. I think I will save the $400, find a good friend, and buy pizza and beer!

 

[sams66]

Vanwall, I live in Toledo and I called a place that has been around for decades here. The lady there quoted me for my 95gt vert top replacement about $400 for everything, labor, and top. If you are interested, give her a call, since you live in Ohio you know how bad the weather is, so I havent actually driven my car to them for the estimate, but seriously $400 bucks, it might be worth it to bring it here and save some money.

Call 419-478-8185 Called EV's Auto Tops in Toledo. One day for the job, according to them.

Sam

 

[Merkstang]

Vanwall, I live in Toledo and I called a place that has been around for decades here. The lady there quoted me for my 95gt vert top replacement about $400 for everything, labor, and top. If you are interested, give her a call, since you live in Ohio you know how bad the weather is, so I havent actually driven my car to them for the estimate, but seriously $400 bucks, it might be worth it to bring it here and save some money.

Call 419-478-8185 Called EV's Auto Tops in Toledo. One day for the job, according to them.

Sam

Ill call tomorrow and see what they say. thanks for the info IF they do it right and are a good place I have a friend in Clevland and I can visit him how far would it be from there? I would guess that is for a vinyl top I can ask how much for the Cloth. Was that WITH the back window being replaced?

 

[donjohn]

Screw all this crap and do it yourself man... Me and my dad installed a top on my '94 stang about a month ago. Of course it took about 9 hours and there are a few small wrinkles that I didn't go back and fix but they're hardly noticeable. As for the rear window it was not defrost kind and it did tear away so we bought some contact cement and it looks fine- after scraping off the excess with a razor blade of course- total cost about $150- $144.90 for the vinal top off ebay and another 5 for the cement.

You can see pics of the top as I have them posted at cardomain with the link below

 

[VANWALL]

Thanks for the Info Sams66. I'll give them a call.

The car is still in the garage with the cover on.

 

[Merkstang]

Ok I just called and the TOP ONLY and install is 395.00 Rear window and pannel is extra. I also asked about a Cloth top that I want to get and its 850.00 With the rear window INSTALLED, That is 1/2 what I was given for an estimate here in PA!!!

Can you get info on how good their work is?? Pics maybe or talk to customers
Maybe a bunch of us can gettogether and get an even better rate... Although that price is pretty good! Keep me posted I would take the drive!

 

[sams66]

guys, from what I have heard around here they do good work. I drove past their shop yesterday, As I dont work far from there, they had several pretty hot older muscle cars in their lot. I believe they also do custom interiors etc. Like I said, not an endorsement, but from what I have seen and heard, it will likely be where I take mine to to get the work done.

they are pretty conveniantly located off of I75 on Sylvania Avenue. From Cleveland, just take the turnpike west, get off on 75 north and look for the Phillips ave exit. Not hard to do. probably an easy 2hrs for the trip.

Good luck, hope that info helped!

Sam