TheSamba.com :: View topic

Thu Jun 03, 2004 3:35 pm

I realize I may catch h*** from the purists, but I need to find someone who can cut a convert frame for a choptop, and do the fabric work on it once the cut/weld work is over. Any suggestions? I'm in Central Calif, so bay area or socal is OK
Chris

Thu Jun 03, 2004 5:05 pm

Are you looking for someone to do the work for you, or are you planning on doing it yourself? If you want someone else to do it, it's going to be WAY expensive. If you do it yourself, it will be WAY time consuming.

I would suggest that you keep the original top intact, not because of originality, but so you have a working top to look at while you fabricate the pieces. If you just start cutting up the original, and you screw up, then you can't just go back and see how it used to work. And it probably wouldn't be any more difficult making new parts as opposed to cutting and welding the existing parts.

Just something to think about.

Steve

Thu Jun 03, 2004 6:08 pm

Search this forum and you'll find many reasons (and not purist) why you don't want to chop your top.

Fri Jun 04, 2004 7:18 am

A big project! You need to find someone with a true passion for modification...it will be extremely expensive as well.

You might consider making what is called a Carson top...a removable top that looks like a convertible top. A good upholstery shop should be able to make one for you. Go to: www.volksrods.com and perform a search. There is a lot of good information and some helpful folks there.

In my opinion (if you care), mild chops look better than radical ones. 2" is about the most that still looks in proportion with the rest of the car. The top of the windshield frame will need more metal added because it gets wider as the a- pillars get shorter.

John www.ghiaspecialties.com

Sat Jun 05, 2004 11:30 pm

Good Luck,

Just the geometry of cutting the metal is daunting enuf,
but to cut, sew and staple a top that won't leak?

If you do it, grasshopper, follow your calling.