Phoenix8990

I got a price of $2,500 to replace my top, that seemed kind of high to me. What kind of prices have people gotten? I'm considering taking it on and hopefully save the 2k install cost. I see OPGI shows 2 vinyl tops with about an $80 difference in cost. Is the cost difference worth it? My car will always be garage kept.
thanks,
Steve

Goldiewilson4mayor

Electron tops are amazing. I restore cars for a living and the one thing I do not do is install convertible tops. I fine that with the hassle of trying to get the top to fit and look correctly and then if there are any warranty issues having it installed is well worth the cost.

edzolz

^^^ This
Unless you are experienced in convertible tops installation, I wouldn't try to do it yourself. It is a big ordeal to get it smooth and the seam leak free.

Fun71

I replaced the top on my car back in 1990 but I doubt I’d do it again. The price you were quoted may be reasonable - it depends upon your area.

In addition to Electron, Crown and Kee are good tops (in that order, my opinion).

deadeyejedi

as stated above unless you are very confident about getting it right, pay a quality shop to do it . my buddy and i did the one on my 72 and im not happy at all with it .

Will22

I had the top on my 72 replaced last year by a local, reputable shop. it was a Robbins top with glass window. The cost was $1500 out the door. I live in SW Missouri.

rand5204

Key tops, $2,000 installed perfectly by my local upholstery shop. After watching the work they went through I would never even consider doing it myself.

rcorrigan5

The upholsterer who installed the convertible top on my '68 would only do the Kee brand.

Randy C.

Phoenix8990

I've gotten 2 prices and both were $2500. I'll have to keep looking and contact local group members to find recommendations. I'm willing to drive a few hours for a $1,000. There are only the 2 shops in a 20 mile radius so maybe they feel they can get more money.

Steve

acavagnaro

I researched tops a couple of years ago in advance of having my '69 done. Electron seemed to be considered the best and my installer told me he wouldn't work with anything else. 100% satisfied. I live in Hendersonville (about 20-30 minutes from Asheville). The guy that did mine was in Brevard but he's not doing it anymore and I can tell you I didn't pay $2500. I'm curious where you've taken it for quotes. Personally, I wouldn't trust the trim shops in this area.

Phoenix8990

One quote was from James Auto Upholstery in Fletcher and the other guy was on Patton Ave. Asheville. I think they figure they are the only shops in the area.

Steve

deadeyejedi

I just called a shop local to Albany ny and he told me materials and labor are about 1600.00 . Provided the frame is in good shape . That is about the average for my neck of the woods

acavagnaro

I've never heard a good word about the place in Fletcher. I wouldn't even consider going there. I don't know anything about the other place on Patton. Have you looked at Greenville? Quite a few trim shops down there so I would expect your cost to be lower. Some of them look to be pretty decent. It's a longer drive for you but not too bad.

Phoenix8990

I will look into Greenville, it an hour away, so very reasonable distance, thanks
Steve