It is not done yet and I have already spent much time thinking about this. I was going to try to use the rear window fiberglass insert so it would still be a LeBaron. Although I think that I prefer the looks with the Crown back window, I do want to try to keep it a LeBaron.
Also, it is not just about the rust. Part of it is my personal taste. As I get closer to finishing, I will be able to get a better idea of what the car will look like with a smooth top.
This is a relatively minor cosmetic change that I or somone else could easily reverse at a later date if needed.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Elijah Scott"
To: mailing-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: IML: Vinyl Tops; was re: Question of the Day
Date: Fri, 28 Apr 2006 05:40:04 -0700 (PDT)
jsadowski <jsadowski@xxxxxxx> wrote:If you leave the vinyl top off, you'll wind up with a Crown. Also, keep in mind that it took 37 years for the roof to get the way it is with "normal" care. Now that it will get more pampering, it should never have another problem.I'll agree with that. My '70, which has always been garaged, shows no evidence of rust under the top.
On the other hand, my '71, which was never garaged until the past five years, continues to have rust problems under the vinyl top.
I believe that better prep work when repairing the rust and replacing the vinyl top will prevent future rust issues. I think the glue is also a factor -- certain types of contact cement tend to absorb and hold moisture.
All in all, it should be possible to properly repair rust, prep the roof, replace the top, and not have future rust problems.
Elijah
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