'70 Convertible top

[Deutsch]

I finally bought a converible ghia, 1970. The roof seems to be original and needs to be replaced (has several holes). The headliner and horse hair padding is in very good shape. So I figure that I can simply take off the old cover and staple on an new one. Is that right? Does any one know if this seems deceivingly easy? The car has the "flip down" rear glass window installed.

Also, what top should I go for? Canvas or vinyl? Who offers the best quality and affordable replacements.

Then there's the front seal that should go somewhere between the convertible top and the top rim of the windshield. Well, it's gone. Does it get glued to the windshield frame or the convertible top? And what's the best adhesive to use?
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The German

[tmckinn]

I recently had my '70 Ghia top replaced. Everyone says VW top replacement is very complicated (that's why trim shops charge up to $1,500 just for labor). That said, if you're very patient, retentative, and handy with fabric you could probably do it with good results.

I bought my top from http://www.convertiblespecialties.com/ I whole-heartedly recommend this guy. Great prices. Buy canvas - don't buy vinyl. He also sells a top installation video for bugs. I understand it's not super detailed but it's probably sufficient. As long as you're saving a $1k bucks by doing your top by yourself, you might as well plop down $120 and get the BIG BLUE BENTLEY. It has step by step guide with photos for convertible top installation http://www.bentleypublishers.com/product.htm?code=v160&subject=20. You can pick up this manual at www.cip1.com and other VW suppliers.

Regarding your seal question, it's glued to the top.

[Deutsch]

Thank you for your reply
Does any one know what the difficult thing is with these tops? I know that the headliners are difficult. But, putting on the outside SEEMS easier. I bet that I'm wrong about that, but i'd like to hear it from someone who's done it before.

Thanks
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The German

[Curly Soo]

I'm also getting ready to replace the top on my 1968 ghia. I'd like to hear more details about what I'm in for and where to get the best deal on a new top and padding (my liner still has a few more years left on it).

[Gary]

Deutsch,

GUARD THAT REAR WINDOW WITH YOUR LIFE. If someone doesn't unlatch it when you lower the top *CRUNCH*

You can't find them anymore. The last time House of Ghia sold an NOS rear glass window, it went for close to $900.
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West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette, 319 U.S. 624 (1943)

[coad]

There's a pretty decent looking glass rear window with defroster wires over on ebay with a Buy it Now of $135.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=33684&item=2438833522[/b]

[Deutsch]

I know these rear windows are rare. I wonder why? You'd expect relatively little damage to the rear unless you drive backwards most of the time.

The latch on mine jiggles allot. So, I looked at it a little closer and noticed that there's a rubber gasket on the inside but not on the outside. Is there supposed to be one on the outside too?
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The German

[Deutsch]

Has anyone tried a cover from aabestco.com? Their prices seem good, but I'd like to know about the quality.

About how much does convertible specialties charge for a canvas cover?
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The German