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Wed Aug 13, 2008 9:44 pm

I have found a 1976 convertible that is in excellent shape other than the top. How much should I expect to pay for a decent top replacement? Any help would be appreciated as I am new to this area.

Thu Aug 14, 2008 4:52 am

You could call or e-mail Chuck's Convertible Parts

http://www.chucksconvertibleparts.com/

I think you could pull it off the car and ship it to him for refurbishment. I don't know how much it would cost, but as an idea of the cost, my local auto upholstry shop quoted me $350.00 labor only for replacing the headliner in my 69 'vert. The top and padding has to be pulled back to replace the headliner.

Thu Aug 14, 2008 7:32 am

I had the top replaced on my Super in Nov of 2007 for $500 plus materials. It came to about $1,000 total and was done at a professional automtive upholstery shop. They used a complete kit and replaced cables, top, padding, headliner, etc. and IIRC the front bow which are usually rusted.

I have seen prices quoted all over the place up to $4k to replace a top so I guess it depends on where you live, who does it and what they charge. My top was done by a shop local to me here in northern Virginia.

Thu Aug 14, 2008 10:48 am

To replace the top, headliner, padding and seals will cost you about $500. If there is damage to any of the bows, or rear window frame, it'll cost you more. Refinishing the frame, powder coating it will be even more There are videos that can guide you through the procedure if you are so inclined to do it yourself. $500 is kinda low for the labor, it's a relatively intensive job. $1000+ is more like it but as noted above labor rates vary depending on your location.

-jeffrey

Thu Aug 14, 2008 12:06 pm

I was quoted $1200 for a local top shop to replace all here in Arkansas.