Has anybody ever replaced their top? How hard was it? I received a quote for $800 to install it and I have the cover and window already, this seems high to me. What do you guy's think?
I did one on mine several years ago. I had never tried it before. It was not one of the easiest things I've tried on the car but not terrible either. It came out OK but it is not show quality either, just OK. The '68 Fisher Body Manual has some good step-by-step instructions, including a couple tools that I made.
That said, I do plan on replacing it again in the future, and will have it done professionally next time.
Ill tell you right now its not all that easy, it takes alot of patience and quite some time. First of all the lower tacking rail is an absolute pain to get bolted in and most likely when you bolt it all in the first time you will have some decent rinkles in the back and have to pull the rail back out and move the top material around some to restaple it. I had to do this about 2-3 times on my dads '71 olds and that tacking rail had 2 easily accessable bolts instead of the like 17 thats in my '69 bird.
But I see it as the tops only cost about $150 leaving plenty of room to mess up a few tops and still come out spending less if you dont count the time you spent on it. If you have the patience and are willing to spend some time on it id say go for it. otherwise id pay someone else who knows exactly what they are doing and would have a fast turnaround time.
$800 definitely sounds high. I paid $425 for the installation in Michigan and the guy had to even repair the meachanism slightly. Maybe a good idea to ask around for more quotes...
I paid $600 CND for the install last spring (about $500 USD at the time) I supplied all the parts which cost me $425 CND.The original quote sight/unseen to install was $450 CND but my roof frame was missing the bar that holds the center portion of the roof material to the frame and one of my latches needed some attention.I would suggest that if you are uncomfortable doing such a job to not attempt it and let a professional do it.Make sure you see the guys work or get references.I have seen some crappy professional installs.If it is done wrong (off center, wrinkles,etc...) you will not be too happy as it will look like crap if you do this.I would say patience is key and to use your old top as a guide.Take plenty of pictures for reference if you do decide to tackle this project. I think i would attempt my next top install myself after successfully tackling the inground pool i just put in but i am happy with having a professional install mine and would say it is worth the money.
David
http://FirstGenFirebird.org/show/closeup.mv?CarID=571 If i don't get this car back on the road soon i'm gonna go postal! On a quest for FGF knowledge 1968 Pontiac Firebird Convertible 1969 Oldsmobile Cutlass "S" Convertible *Sold*
