View Full Version : Top Boot


69rad
Apr 26th, 04, 04:14 PM
One of the previous owners of my car had a custom top boot made that snapped down, using REGULAR SNAPS. So the molding has been ruined by having these snaps screwed into it.

Has anybody else ran into this fablous modification. I don't want to spend the $ on the molding until I'm ready to do the paint which won't be for a few years. I'm wondering if the stock style clips will mount over the snaps if any end up in the exact location.

ANy opinion on who makes the best fitting top boot

dschribs
Apr 27th, 04, 02:21 AM
69rad:
I'm not sure if the clips will fit over the snaps but couldn't you just unscrew the snaps from the molding?? Most snaps I've seen on convertibles - like the prior owner did to yours or on a Jeep I use to own - simply have a screw in the middle which you can remove and the snap comes off with it.

I bought my top boot from Rick's - they had two different "grades". I went with the better one and am very happy with it.

Dan
'68 Convertible

MStennes
Apr 27th, 04, 08:43 AM
I too went with the heavier boot and love it, I had a cheaper one and it had to have foam put between the top and the boot so it would not rub through or rip it.
Mike

69rad
Apr 27th, 04, 03:08 PM
I thought about removing the snaps too, but then thought now I have these stupid holes. My main concern is to put on a descent boot though. I gues if the factory clips don't clear the snaps I could remove them and replace them with rivets, filling the hole with silicone before installing the rivet.

SO you guys are happy with the "heavier" boot from Ricks? I'll check that out.

Thanks

MStennes
Apr 27th, 04, 06:46 PM
I like it and it will last forever, the point being is the top wont fold down as well so its a real bitch to put on the boot and get it snapped. It also lifts the boot where it clips to the trim. I did it last winter so I hope a few hot days will settle it (doubtful). I would go with the standard top next time. I mean its a convertable why have it if the tops up??? For the few top up times the standard will be fine without the boot issues. When I started this project I went by more and bigger is better, that has since changed.
Mike

daverichard
Apr 28th, 04, 10:07 AM
I had someone do the exact same thing to mine, and I really need to purchase a new boot. Problem is my car has the 68-only optional door chrome. This required a different well molding and it is not currently reproduced. I have tried a friend's boot and clips on mine and it works over the snaps relatively well but I still plan on removing the snaps (which are attached by rivets) and putting new rivets in the old holes. This should be less noticable than the snaps and I will continue to hunt down a replacement piece.

If anyone knows where I can find a convertible well molding for a 68 with chrome door-top trim in decent condition for REASONABLE price, please let me know.

There is a picture of my "snappy" situation at the link in my signature.

69rad
Apr 28th, 04, 03:57 PM
Well at least I'm not the only one with a "moron modified" boot.

Maybe I've got the only 69?

69rad
May 15th, 04, 11:38 AM
Has anyone know anything about the top boots from
Acme Auto Headling Co?

My interior guy is redoing my seats with PUI Houndstooth right now and I asked him for a price on a PUI top boot and he said he likes the Acme ones better.

I know on here people seemed more happy with PUI compared to some of the others, but did that also include the Acme ones, I wonder?

[ 05-15-2004, 04:36 PM: Message edited by: 69rad ]

36j1967
May 15th, 04, 04:18 PM
Dave, I have an extra 68 well molding in good shape?
Pat

RickD
May 17th, 04, 06:35 AM
I wish someone would fab up a fiberglass hard cover.

speedy-Z
May 17th, 04, 06:09 PM
I have seen a few like that before, kind of goofy looking. I think maybe buy a set a driver quality moldings and boot resonable at a swap meet or ebay.

69rad
Jun 7th, 04, 02:14 PM
Has anyone got experience with the boots from
Acme Auto Headliner Co. in Long Beach, CA?

My interior guy says they are the best and the only thing he sells. They are pricey $149.00 plus $80.00 for the clips AND they have a 2 to 3 week lead time. They do sell direct and I got the info from them not my interior guy. Maybe they are good for that kind of price and wait, they would have to be.

Any one heard of them???

Thanks

69rad
Jun 11th, 04, 09:34 AM
Well I went with the PUI boot it will be 1/2 the price of that other one.

I found REAL GOOD prices on PUI stuff. If interested email me and I'll geive you my source