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Old 10-28-2015, 06:34 AM   #21
Vic Piano
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Default Re: new top

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Originally Posted by bobH View Post
David, or anyone who has installed a LB top, is it REALLY a DIY job? Reason I ask, the top on my 47 has never looked real good (20 yrs old). It has always had wrinkles in the quarter area. When I bought the car, I was told it is a LB top. I don't know if it was pro or DIY installed. I've had a little upholstery experience, but I'm certainly no pro. I did the insert on my 34, and it came out 'perfect'. Those of you that have installed a top, what do you think? Can it be a successful DIY job? I'd like a new top, if it looks real good. (Old top is still 100% functional, it's just looking a little poor.)
With the cost of a 'good' top for a Ford Convertible Sedan being close to $1,000.00, not including installation (almost 10 years ago), and me not being experienced in that process, I opted to have the tops installed on my '39 CS, '47 Convertible and my '53 Sunliner. To me it is worth the cost of having a professional do the installation for a number of reasons.
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Old 10-28-2015, 09:00 AM   #22
rotorwrench
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Default Re: new top

Trimming a top is one of the most difficult jobs a trimmer can take on. It does help to have a good kit and most trimmers can't cut and sew the stuff for any less money than the premade stuff so that is the largest concern for the DIY guys. You will probably find problems in any water entrapment areas that need to be repaired or replaced. If wood is involved, there will likely need to be repairs or replacements. Tack strips and the channels that sometimes hold them will have to be restored or replaced. Pads, cables, top irons, and lift mechanisms may all need attention prior to installation of the new top. Actually installing the top is the easier part but it ain't always easy.

If you are a dedicated DIY type and are resourceful in the search for needed information and parts, then I say go for it.
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