C3 - 1978 t-tops

[Jamie Stroup]

Hi,
Does anyone know where I could purchase (reasonable) the driver's side t-top for my 1978 pace car? My t-top is dated 1981. The stamp that is correct on the passenger side says that they are Blue, Safety LOF Flolite, AS-3 GJ, Laminated, DOT 15 M1131. So, I believe this is what I need for the driver's side also, the code GJ. Thanks !!!

[Tom R.]

Re: C3 - 1978 t-tops

Reasonable is the operative word here and GJ is the date code on the glass which limits your options rather significantly. To find a date-coded driver's side glass t-top will be quite a challenge and most likely NOT reasonably priced. In 1978, according to published records only Pace Cars were delivered with glass tops and only 972 were ordered for production year 1978. Of course I believe a few were ordered on non-Pace Car coupes but no evidence has surfaced to support that theory. Also, the GJ date code indicates an April 78 build date.

To keep it reasonable, I would suggest a search for the Blue Safety glass t-top which were readily available after 1978. In 1979, nearly 15,000 were sold; in 1980 the number increased to 19,700 while in 1981...over 29,000 were sold! The tints changed depending on the paint scheme. I've seen bronze tint which were installed on the 82 Collector Corvettes.

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 - 1978 t-tops

Jamie----

Generally, I think that if you're after exact original with respect to "dates", etc., you're going to have to find a good used top. It doesn't have to be from a pace car, but you'll need to have it repainted assuming that you need the complete top.

The best source for T-Tops and complete T-Tops is Melrose T-Tops at 815-758-2783. I'd call them for info. Don't expect this to be inexpensive. Under almost no circumstances will it be.

[Jamie Stroup]

Re: C3 - 1978 t-tops

Thanks so much for your information. I didn't realize the 78's were so rare. My 78 has the 81 code on the driver's side, which was brought to my attention at the Chevy/Vettefest. They said to try and find a J code for future NCRS judging. I guess it sounds like this will be nearly impossible. Thanks for the info. again.

[Jamie Stroup]

Re: C3 - 1978 t-tops

Thanks for your information. I will check into Melrose T-tops.

[Mike R.]

Re: C3 - 1978 t-tops

Try

http://www.pipersauto.com

or Paragon. They have a good used parts department

[Mike R.]

Re: C3 - 1978 t-tops

Try

http://www.pipersauto.com

or Paragon. They have a good used parts department