71 Soft Top - What are these things??????

[Peter B.]

I need to replace these two long pads that run inside the soft top along the area where the side windows are. They are about 6inches wide (or so) and are white. What are these called so I can order new ones.

I also have these straps that run along side the back window on the inside of the soft top. One is broken. Same color. Are these the same part as above or a separate part?

Any ideas of where to get these? Of course, I need to know what they are.

HELP

[Chuck G.]

Re: 71 Soft Top - What are these things??????

They're the soft top pads....the larger ones. The smaller ones I call the window straps. They come in all the "kits" with new tops. Al Knoch might sell you just the pads and straps, but you'll have to remove nearly the entire top to put the pads and straps on...so you might as well put a new top on too. Chuck

[Joe L.]

Re: 71 Soft Top - What are these things??????

Peter-----

They're called convertible top pads. You can purchase a pad kit for most of the Corvette convertible tops from most of the Corvette vendors like Dr. Rebuild, Paragon, Corvette Central, etc. Usually, the pads are replaced when the convertible top is replaced. In order to replace the pads you have to remove much of the top from the frame, anyway. If I was "in the job" that far, I'd just replace the whole top WITH the pads. I don't understand how the pads can be at the stage where they need replacement if the top is not also at about the same place.

[Joe C.]

Re: 71 Soft Top - What are these things??????

Agree with Joe. Why not replace the whole top? Al Knoch Interiors makes an excellent top kit, but he can set you up with any individual items that you may need, if that is what you decide to do. Whether you talk to Al, Dale, Arturo, or any of the installers, they are all willing to help. Good luck.

Joe

PS: If you decide to replace the entire top, and are a novice, then you must purchase their installation video. As far as NCRS judging is concerned, the only issue that will be of concern, is the stitching that runs longitudinaly along the top pads. Original stitching is double stitched.