aluminum hardtop header

[David B.]

Is it possible that an early (Dec 56) 57 could have been shipped with a hardtop with the aluminum style front header on the hardtop (not the stainless type)?
Thanks
David

[Mike E.]

Re: aluminum hardtop header

Almost anything is possible. Some things are not likely, however, and that is one of them. Window dates in that top would help give an indication of assembly date of the top---generally top predates build date of the car by no more than 2 months.
You never know--back in about 1982 I documented a very late 57 owned by the second owner that had a 58 headliner in it--top had been on car from day 1.

[David B.]

Re: aluminum hardtop header

Thanks Mike,

My windows do not have date codes (long since replaced), so unfortunately I cannot use that. There are some telltale clues that lead me to believe that my aluminum header top may be original though and I don't want to change tops if it might be the original one.

I can track it to being with the car as far back as around 1963. It also has the correct original color headliner and correct original paint color for the car. Also, I am only the 4th owner of the car. But, I cannot trace it before the 2nd owner.

I was hoping to hear any additional responses that would verify the existence of other very early 57 cars (pre SN __ 1240) having the older style '56 top. But, I think I will stick with what I have, just in case. I would hate to screw up by replacing what might be an authentic original piece.

If anyone else has any knowledge on this, please weigh in also.

Thanks again,
David

[Roy B.]

Re: aluminum hardtop header

Most questions will never be answered ,so many things happened back then , I don't believe GM would throw out any part that was serviceable for the next year car, but just use it up till gone if it worked.
That is the biggest problem with any one owning a vary early or late model Corvette concerning parts. That is being lost in some cases because people follow the JM which in turn makes many Corvette be and look all the same.

[David B.]

Re: aluminum hardtop header

Thanks Roy.

By the way, your recent advice to me on the rear axles for the posi I installed worked out well. It's back on the road and runs great.

Folks like yourself, and many other contributors to this Board, help make this hobby a lot more fun - as it should be.

David B.