I'm replacing a top on a 72 Cutlass. My question is should i use vinyl or canvas? What are you guys using?

 

The new top that was installed on my '72 was from Year One; the previous owner bought it and had a good local trim shop install it.
I am happy with it, though the top was not quite adjusted around the rear left window as good as it could have been. The installation is just as important as the top.
Mine is like a heavy cloth with a vinyl layer melted into it or something to that description - like what GM used.

Legendary Auto Interiors carrys a good top also - their stuff is about the best that you can get (from what I have heard.)

 

And if you don't mind me adding to your thread ..........

anybody install there own ?

 

Robbins tops are the best & most expensive. I was just curious if anyone had used the old style canvas. I'm going to install it myself. I've seen a couple of messes made by so called trim shops. I've done quite a bit of custom leather interior work so should be not to hard. A Fischer body manual gives great instructions on installation.

 

well, good luck with that! GM used vinyl tops for these cars with plastic rear windows. Anything else used IMHO doesn't look right. I have the best trim shop in the world here in Carmichael Ca. although this might be his older location. He moved to a bigger shop right across the street.
Biner's Upholstery
3915 Wayside Lane Suite B
Carmichael, CA 95608

Phone: (916)482-6216

They had the top frame blasted and powder coated, installed all new weatherstrips, installed the top with NO wrinkles, and adjusted the frame to spec. I installed all new hydraulics including pump, rams and lines.

 

I am not sure what years in particular used plastic rear windows, but I do know that 71 and 72 used glass from the factory.
I looked into this when I got my car and the service manuals. Both the 71 and 72 body manuals state A-style "Convertible style back curtains utilize an integral solid - tempered back window glass"
I thought the sales brochure for 72 stated this also.

Anyone know exactly what years used plastic or glass? Now I am very curious.
I do know you can order tops with either. Mine came with tinted glass that matches the tint in the other windows.

 

Lady72 you are correct about glass windows on 71 & 72.

 

I just checked out jcwhitney and I have a 93 Cutlass Supreme Convertible. The part I think I need is ZX331648 glass with defroster...
Now I went on the live chat with them and they told me that ZX331648, ZX331649 and ZX331650 are all the same item (even though there is a $20 difference in price) Has anyone used these tops?
Also I am in desperate need of weatherstripping on my driver door and both rear windows - where can I order them?
Any help is really appreciated - summer is almost here and my new baby has to be ready for the road!