About Convertible Tops And Where To Buy Them

Today there are a couple different types of convertible tops for automobiles. There are the classic fabric tops (soft top) and the retractable hardtop convertibles. Most people think that the hardtop retractable is a fairly new concept. The first one was actually the 1956 Skyline convertible so the idea has been around for a long time.

When purchasing a replacement top you have a couple options. You can go to the dealer and pay top dollar for a new top. You can go to a specialty shop and pay even more because they are probably going to buy the top from a dealer, then mark it up to make a profit.

The other option that you have is to order an aftermarket top and install it yourself. This is the most cost effective way to go. The key is to order from a good company. Also make sure that it is returnable if it doesn't fit or if the color is wrong.

Another thing you want to consider is the back window. The older cars (pre 1980's) mainly came with a plastic rear window. They had a habit of clouding up, cracking and eventually blowing out completely. You might want to upgrade to a real glass rear window.

Just make sure that there are no obstructions in the convertible top that would cause damage or breakage when the top is lowered. The hardtop retractable typically will not need to be replaced. These are power operated tops where the trunk will open backwards and the hardtop will fold into the trunk.

Even though the top will probably never need to be replaced, the seals eventually will. If not replaced, eventually they will start leaking and water will enter the passenger compartment when it rains. Again, the most cost effective way to purchase these parts is through a well established aftermarket company. You can either replace them yourself or have a shop do it for you.