CRG Discussion Forum
Camaro Research Group Discussion => Originality => Topic started by: Flowjoe on January 04, 2006, 06:29:26 AM
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Thanks to board member Dale Hubbard I just picked up a '69 307 car (AC, PS, PB-disc, TH-350, STD MG INT) from the original owner. They told me that they had the dealer install the vinyl roof. It looks just like a '68 vinyl roof (no body color reveal around the drip rail).
First, anyone know how common place this practice was? I know vinyl roofs were very popular back then but have no sense of how often a dealer would install rather than order from the factory.
Second, I'd like opinions (I know, now I'v e asked for it). When restoring the car should I replace the dealer installed top or omit it to match the original factory build?
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Back then they did put vinyl tops on quite a bit. Chances are very good the Chevy dealer did not install the top themselves but was sent out to a local upolstery and trim shop. IMO leave it off. Good luck on your resto.
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...if there are dealer documents that indicate it did have the vinyl top installed, ...then it's a tough decision whether to put it back on or not. If there are no documents, ...then it's an easier decision.
...in either case it's definitely something to think about... (yeah, I know, ...I'm no help ... ::) )
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Fiveforty:
I have no doubt it was done off site from the dealer...I wonder if therewas beter profit on dealer installed items such as this versus ordering equipped cars. I suspect the dealer made out like a bandit on dealer installed items (just like current dealers)
KevinK:
The owner was helpful but lacked ready access to his documentation (he ran the car through his business so it is all filed by year rather than in a car file). He did say he found the original sales receipt and would send it along. We'll see. and yes, you are not much help ;D.
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I think you would be setting yourself up for a lot of grief at car shows with a 68 style vinyl top on a 69. Even if it was 69 style I don't think I would do it. After all dealers put a lot of stuff on cars new but usually nobody puts it on in a "Factory Restoration" How many times have you heard that the Z stripes were dealer installed on non Zs and they were but that don't make it correct. Just my opinion.