I had to cut the original vinyl top off of my Riviera because of rust, it was in perfect condition, which kinda sucks. I plan on getting a new top installed and wondered what they usually run? I was also considering getting a cloth looking top instead of the vinyl, even though I know it wont be original and alot of people will say dont do it. I figure the cloth looking one cost more so if the cost difference is very big i will probably stick with vinyl. Another question i had is when to get it installed. I plan on doing the paint and body work myself and was wondering if i should have the top installed before or after painting. I dont wanna spend huge amounts of time trying to get the best possible paint job that i can do only to have it scratched up by the guy installing the top. I know i could mask the top off without getting any paint on it , but wouldnt it be better for the metal under the top if it was painted, as far as sealing out moisture and stuff. Or maybe it would be best to paint under the top with Por-15 or something like that, because actually that should seal out more moisture then regular paint would. I dont know, but i guess that is why I am here to benefit from the knowledge and mistakes of others. Im not trying to restore the car to original or anything so i open to any ideas about anything,except leopard fur interior, i already had that once in a Camaro .......... it just wasnt the chick magnet that you would think it would be.
I haven't used it, but other products like por-15 work under a vinyl top. Do all body work and painting prior to installation of the top. The area under the vinyl needs to be pretty slick or it will show through the material. I had one installed on a 442 this week and it cost $225. Good luck.
