C1 Soft Top Removal

[Jason P.]

Still working on my 58 Corvette full restoration. I am wanting to take the soft top apart so I can properly restore and paint it. It currently has a very old, possibly original, soft top that is extremely stiff.

Would it but worth it to try and preserve the top if it was original? Its not in very good shape that I can tell.

I am pretty sure I should eventually install a new top but wanted to know if there were any tips on how to remove a very old top. Should I just cut it out with scissors?

Thanks,
Jason

[Mark S.]

Re: C1 Soft Top Removal

There are screws through the weatherstrip pieces and small screws through the metal rods. Take those out and pry out the fasteners in the tacking strips. With these out you can peel away the glued fabric and pads. Save everything that you take apart for reference and take pictures. Bag and tag. If your top is original, note the date and stamping on the back window. Al Knoch makes a good replacement top and has a video for installation. You might need new weatherstrips, screws, pads etc. I am sure that others will chime in with their perspectives. Mark

[Jason P.]

Re: C1 Soft Top Removal

Thanks so much for the info.

There are screws through the weatherstrip pieces and small screws through the metal rods. Take those out and pry out the fasteners in the tacking strips. With these out you can peel away the glued fabric and pads. Save everything that you take apart for reference and take pictures. Bag and tag. If your top is original, note the date and stamping on the back window. Al Knoch makes a good replacement top and has a video for installation. You might need new weatherstrips, screws, pads etc. I am sure that others will chime in with their perspectives. Mark

[Mark S.]

Re: C1 Soft Top Removal

You are very welcome!