Do you have to replace the entire top and frame? How much should I expect to pay for the entire converson?

Thanks,
Jerry

 

i have seen postings on this board by those who have done it and they said that the entire top had to be replaced- dont remember how much it cost though.

 

You can simply replace the soft top to the newer ones with glass. You do not need to buy a new frame. The soft top can be had from hardtopguy for around $850. This price doesn't include the defroster, which is optional. If you have 10-15 hours of spare time you can install it yourself.

 

HyperDimensions,
Do you mean that the soft top with glass rear window AND frame can be had for ~$850? I checked his site and could only find a blue top.


Jerry

 

No, just the soft top. You dont' need a new frame since the newer soft tops fit on the older frames.

You can PM hardtopguy and he'll get you a black top for around $850.

 

Thanks HyperDimensions. I guess I was reading your post too fast. I wonder how much typical install is. I am not all that handy.

Jerry

 

I just switched my top a few weeks ago. I got the black '04 soft-top from "Hardtopguy" for $850 shipped to my door.

You only need the soft-top, the '00 frame fits the newer tops but you have to modify the frame a little by adding some straps to make it work correctly.

Look in the library on this site, there is a full "do-it-yourself" article that explains everything in detail. Like it says, be prepared to spend A LOT of time doing the installation if you do it yourself.

I've been qouted in the $1000 range to have a dealership do the installation, and i've heard a few upholestry shops may do it for anywhere between $300-$600.

 

I wrote the install on the top conversion and will confirm what has been said here. You'll need to purchase the softop from Hardtop guy for $850 or from your dealer for $1,100. The only additional parts you'll need are nylon and elastic straps from the fabric store and a rivet gun with misc rivets.

I've heard install prices ranging from $500 to $1,400. Check out my instructions in the library and decide if you can tackle the job yourself. It's probably worth doing it yourself.

 

for clovis writing a DIY article. It is very detailed and helped a lot. To me, a few hours a day of patient work is better than paying someone else $500+ to do the install.

 

Clovis,
Great write up on the conversion. This is waaaay beyond my skills. I guess I need to find someone to do it for me. Nice car by the way.

Jerry