Convertible top and frame recommendations/advice wanted

[Tim D.]

Does anyone have recommendations for getting my convertible top frame completely stripped, rebuilt (rivets etc), powder coated as well as soft top vendors and installation. I am considering both Al Knoch and Clint Coffman. I am bound and determined to get an overall super tight fit as well as the correct fit around the deck lid and windows.

I have read info about first fitting a hard top and adjusting the windows to that but I don't have a hardtop to use. I have also read about first fitting the soft top frame only and adjusting the fit between the frame and the windows prior to installing the soft top.

Does anyone know of a top specialist that makes "house calls" and sets the top up perfectly in the owner's garage? I don't particularly want to haul my car to a car show. I'm sure that request is probably a "pie in the sky" hope.

All thoughts and recommendations would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance. Tim (50796)

[Michael A.]

Re: Convertible top and frame recommendations/advice wanted

Tim
One person I've spoken with at Bloomington Gold (many years ago) was Jerry Sullivan of Sully's Tops. He is based in Fresno CA so is not convenient to you in Missouri. However he does restore original frames or sells reproduction units. He also says on his web site, http://www.sullystops.com/index.html
that he can give recommendations in some areas. It's worth a call. Some others may have more to say about Sully. Let's see what others chip in.

Cheers
Mike

[Ron R.]

Re: Convertible top and frame recommendations/advice wanted

A good friend used Sully's and was very pleased. He does a great job.

[Mike M.]

Re: Convertible top and frame recommendations/advice wanted

john kennedy will fly to your garage and sew up a top that will fit like no other installer. he did the top on 53 vin 003 that john amgwert, howard kirsch and les bieri restored in the early 90's. no one, including al knoch, who i admire. will do the job of john kennedy.see restored page 2 for john's contact info.mike

[Tim D.]

Re: Convertible top and frame recommendations/advice wanted

Michael and Ron,

Thanks for your input. I will check Sully's website out. I have seen his ads for years but never really made any inquires. Now that it is time to put a top on my restoration I need to dig deep to find the right guy.

Have a great day!

Tim

[Tim D.]

Re: Convertible top and frame recommendations/advice wanted

Mike,

Thanks for the info. At first when you said "John Kennedy" will fly to my garage, I thought you were joking......He sounds like the magic guru I am looking for. I am currently out of town, but when I get home, I will check The Restorer for his contact info.

Tim

[Tim D.]

Re: Convertible top and frame recommendations/advice wanted

Mike,

I got John Kennedy's info from pg 2 in the Restorer as you suggested. I have not contacted him yet, but thanks for the advice.

Tim