56 hardtop I.D.

[Larry Sherman]

Hi. I am trying to find out if a 56 hardtop is unique. As in different from 57/later. I have what I think is a 56 hardtop needing a lot of work. I don't want to put a lot of money into it only to find out it's incorrect for a 56. Could anyone help with how to be certain. Thanks as always, Larry

[mike mccagh]

Re: 56 hardtop I.D.

early 56 hardtops lack the stainless trim on the leading edge of the hardtop, ir its painted, unlike the later 56 thru 62 hardtops that had the stainless trim. mike

[Rob Dame]

Re: 56 hardtop I.D.

The early 56 H/T had the stainless strip but it is narrower than the later 56 and up. Rob

[Dennis C.]

Aside from the early '56 trim mentioned...

...56, 57, & 58 hard tops are quite a bit alike. Window dates can help. Headliner can help, but check the left and right "rain gutters" - 56/7/8 gutters have a rather sharp edge as opposed to the 59/60 smooth rolled edge. You certainly don't want to restore one of these things and then find out you've been working on a 59/60. Best, Dennis

[mike mccagh]

Re: 56 hardtop I.D.

rob: weren't the real early 56 narrow trimpieces painted exterior color? seem to recall judging one years ago that was painted. mike

[Rob Dame]

Re: 56 hardtop I.D.

Can't say for sure Mike. The JG says that it may be painted on some early cars. My 56 # 316 has the narrow stainless molding. The car was restored 15 years before I got it. JMO but for the most part I think H/Ts are a PITA. Mine has been on the car three times sinse I've had it. Once when I drove it home. Once when I adjusted the windows to it and once when I took it to Florida one Jan. Other than that its been upside down in the middle of my living room floor

[mike mccagh]

Re: 56 hardtop I.D.

unside down in living room floor-----that'd make one hell of a beer cooler. mike

[Larry S.]

Re: 56 hardtop I.D.

Well, at least now I know what to use it for if it isn't a 56 top. Never enuf cold beer. Thanks, guys. Larry

[Bill H.]

Re: 56 hardtop I.D.

FWIW, if I recall correctly the stainless trim "Y"s at the base between the side windows and rear window was different after 1958. (In addition to the aforementioned header trim) That might help date the top.