Reproduction soft top wanted

[57hoon]

Hi
Im new to thunderbirds and to this forum, i recently purchased a 57
I need advice on where to buy a soft top and what is a good reproduction brand
Thanks 57hoon

 

[gbhrps]

57hoon,
Here in Canada and the USA we have many sources for replacements for the soft top. I'm not familiar with what you will find available in Australia, but a Google search for 55-57 Thunderbird convertible tops should yield hits from many different suppliers in North America. These suppliers have kits made specifically for these small birds. They run from just under $200 USD to just over $450, depending on whether you want vinyl or Stayfast Cloth. One such supplier is National Parts Depot. Their online catalogue is NPDLink | National Parts Depot

Any of the suppliers could give you the shipping costs by email, if you can't find an Aussie source.

Regardless, it is not a job for the first time DIYer. It might be after having assisted a professional with installing two or three first. Good Luck!

 

[57hoon]

57hoon,
Here in Canada and the USA we have many sources for replacements for the soft top. I'm not familiar with what you will find available in Australia, but a Google search for 55-57 Thunderbird convertible tops should yield hits from many different suppliers in North America. These suppliers have kits made specifically for these small birds. They run from just under $200 USD to just over $450, depending on whether you want vinyl or Stayfast Cloth. One such supplier is National Parts Depot. Their online catalogue is NPDLink | National Parts Depot

Any of the suppliers could give you the shipping costs by email, if you can't find an Aussie source.

Regardless, it is not a job for the first time DIYer. It might be after having assisted a professional with installing two or three first. Good Luck!

Thanks Mate for the quick response.
I should have said i require a complete top including frame and what ever else i need, all i have is the hard top at the moment.
Thanks 57hoon

 

[gbhrps]

The frames aren't being made by anyone, as most parts are cast aluminum. Used ones are hard to come by but they are available. They show up occasionally on eBay, but they aren't cheap!

Another source is Amos Minter in Dallas/Fort Worth Texas. Go online on Google and type in Amos Minter. They do strictly 55-57 Thunderbird restorations. On their web site search down until you find convertible tops for sale. They have a supply of used ones, with and without tops, and even some needing total restoration. The parts for doing so are readily available from several suppliers over here. Expect to pay $2500- $3000 USD or more for a complete frame.

Be aware that you will also need the swinging frame assembly that swings the top, once folded down, inside the car behind the seats, if your car isn't so equipped. Good Luck!

 

[57hoon]

Thanks Tbird Master for the info i will start looking where you suggested
Cheers 57hoon