I have a '77 Cutlass Supreme with the original partial vinyl top (22T - Light Blue Poly). I have rust underneath a portion of it. The area is only about the size of a quarter in two areas near the passenger side window by the top quarter panel. The rust is beginning to bubble and separate. I actually have some rust just below the trim on the quarter panel.

Questions:
1. Should I try to salvage and pull back the vinyl for the rust repair areas? I am thinking I should just go ahead and pull off the whole vinyl to do the repairs because there may be more damage than I know of.
2. Where do I find the replacement vinyl to match the 22T?
3. Will I be able to reuse the fasteners and trim or have to buy new. I want to try to keep original if at all possible.
4. I will be going to a professional to do the work. I guess I can let them tell me. I am just hoping to cut back on the time needed in their shop.

Any advise would be appreciated.
Thanks. Bob

 

Definitely address this now. If there's rust under the vinyl top there's more than meets the eye. It will spread if left alone.

You can get replacement vinyl from SMS Auto Fabrics.

https://smsautofabrics.com/?gclid=EA...SAAEgKrt_D_BwE

The hardware might be able to be reused. The top trim is secured with plastic clips that deteriorate with age. If you're having a shop redo the top they should have a source for new hardware.

 

Thanks for the response Olds64. I see you are also in Oklahoma. FYI., I called a few different shops around the Tulsa area, a few were interested but all could not do the work right now. They seem to be interested in doing only Collision/Insurance work. I guess I will have to start over on calling. I need to find the specialty P&B shops. I do understand that the vinyl has to be removed to see the extent of the damage. The damages that I can feel through the vinyl are no bigger than three quarters total.

 

Yeah, most shops make their money from insurance claims. You might consider taking a vo-tech, auto body course in the evenings. That's how I redid my 71 98. I ended up spending about $1500 total to paint my Olds along with class fees.

 

Thanks Olds64. That is what I was discussing with a buddy of mine yesterday.. I went to Votech in Tulsa from '76-'78 for Auto-mechanics. Only reason I passed High School. Time for them to help me out again.