Re: Convertible top Vendor
Posted by Leeedy On 2016/8/31 15:21:51
Quote:
TroyT wrote:
Looking for input on vendors that reproduce Convertible tops and side curtains for all models.
Lots of tops to replace :)
If you are doing a prewar car with side curtains, it is best to find a very good trim shop with talented staff. Then either find original pieces (not always good due to shrinkage, etc.) or good existing patterns (better if they are factory patterns). Then have your trimmer use these as a guide.
Some postwar tops can still be ordered from vendor companies, but this business is shrinking.
Many of the old vendors for ready-made convertible tops and for the fabrics have just plain disappeared or have gone out of business. The trim industry is hugely changed from what it once was.
Most convertible tops today are being made from the wrong fabrics and many details like "Hidem"strips used where "Wire-on" strips or even stainless trim should be used. These are common mistakes on rear bow trim, for instance. Wrong fasteners are often installed today that Packard would never have used. Canvas tops on Caribbeans are just not right...and abominations on V-8 Caribbeans.
I believe Eric Haartz had some fabric guidelines and other interesting vintage convertible top info posted on the Haartz site.
Robbins Auto Top Company (now located in Ventura area, California) used to do onesy-twosy orders, but I'm not sure if that is still true since they have grown so huge and are more volume oriencted now. Their work was always top notch.
I gave several of my original Packard convertible top factory patterns to Acme Auto Headlining Company in Long Beach, California well back in the 1970s. They made lots of convertible tops sold nationwide too. No idea if they still have the old patterns today, but they once had stacks of them.This Post was from: https://packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/newbb/viewtopic.php?post_id=181241