How to Replace Auto Vinyl Tops
Vinyl tops are common on older cars. The problem with vinyl tops is they wear out from the sun and old age. The color starts to fade and the vinyl starts to tear, making it tough to drive with. You can replace the vinyl tops with a few tools.
Things You'll Need:
- Screwdrivers
- WD-40
- Adhesive Remover
- Soap
- Water
- Wash Bucket
- Tape Measure
- Marker
- Spray Adhesive
- Tape
- Utility Knife
- Remove the old vinyl top by first removing the plastic molding around the windows. A screwdriver should pop out the plastic molding. It could take a while to remove the molding because it has probably been installed many years ago. Use a lubricant like WD-40 to help loosen the glue around the molding.
- Pull the vinyl top off. This could also be tough but try using an adhesive remover to loosen the glue.
- Remove all the glue left over from the plastic molding and the bottom of the vinyl top. This process will be slow, but make sure you remove all the glue before continuing.
- Wash the roof thoroughly with soap and water.
- Mark the center point of the roof on each side with a marker.
- Prepare the top of the car by spraying some type of spray adhesive. This will help the new vinyl top stick to the roof.
- Mark the center points of the vinyl top; don't use the same marker however. Use a piece of tape so you can remove it when you're done.
- Lay the vinyl top on the roof. Align the marks on the vinyl top with the marks on the roof.
- Remove any unnecessary material on the vinyl top with a utility knife.