C1: '57 power top system restoration

[Vass Theodoracatos]

I am planning to restore my '57 power top system. Are you aware of any reference material to help me with this project?

Also, I was told that the original cylinders are not "restorable" due to damage from old hydraulic fluid. Is this true?

Thanks.

[Roy Braatz]

Re: C1: '57 power top system restoration

Vass I had many power top vetts and wrote many articals on them .E-Mail me at braatz@jps.net ! And your old ones can be helped.

[James F.]

Re: C1: '57 power top system restoration

Vass,
In addition to Roy's information your best bet is the Corvette Service Guide ST-12. The cylinders are not cost effective to be rebult. Although, it might be able to do so. The cylinder would need to be cut apart, taking the thinest slice out of the body possible. The bore cleaned out and the (slightly under) 2" rubber piston replaced. That was the easy part. Somehow it needs to be aluminum welded back together keeping heat away from the seals. Generally the chrome rod will need to be rechromed (or made out of 1/2" dia. stainless steel rod). Replacement cylinders, although not EXACTLY original in appearance cost around $120.00. Regards,

[Vass Theodoracatos]

Re: C1: '57 power top system restoration

Roy and Jim,

Thanks for your feedback. Between Roy's help with his articles on power tops and Jim's suggestion of the Corvette Service Guide ST-12, I will be able to get the info I need to make a decision about totaly restoring vs. replacing some of the parts with currently available reproductions. I want, though, to maintain the originality and correctness of all my vette's parts(NCRS#27043.)