Buick Gran Sport, Skylark & Special, 1966-67
Convertible Top and Convertible Top Parts

Fabrics: Pinpoint vinyl top is also available in regular or "Eurotopping." Eurotopping is made with a thick butyl rubber central bonding layer. This process is the same as used in Haartz Stayfast canvas. The process makes these fabrics the longest wearing. Please do not confuse true Eurotopping with claims of "double texture" or "super heavy weight." Heaviness, by itself, does not confer advantages over lighter flexible toppings.

Installation: This is a classic two part top. You can read a thorough summary of the construction and installation of this top via the link at the bottom of this page. Installation involves stapling and glueing. There is no sewing involved. Many of our customers perform beautiful, first time, installation of classic two part tops using our manuals. The full manual for installing the 1966-67 Skylark top is available and is included with our full restoration package specials.

Both Parts Available Separately: If you wish to replace only the window section, or only the main top, the two parts are separately available.

Hold Down Cables: A pair of cables, one on each side, thread through pocketed hems on the main top sides. The ends of the cables hold the top to the frame. New cables are recommended with each new top. (You can read about cables in the installation summary link.)

Tacking strips: Much of the installation involves tacking or stapling (there is no sewing involved.) Tacking into the bow over the windshield (header bow) and into the bow over the rear window (rear top bow) is done into special strips embedded in these frame bows. We offer new tack strips for the front and rear top bows. They should not be required until after at least two tops have been stapled to them. Rebuilding the rear base line tacking strips requires grafting sections of suitable dimension and we would cut and ship per your needs for that purpose.

Top pads: Top padding "builds out" the top. Pads can last through two tops but should be replaced if of suspect condition.

Top Boots: You have the option of using a top storage boot. Our boot fits, as original. If any of the 16 boot clips need replacement you must order new clips (see "Accessories.")

Installation manual: The manual for classic two part tops is summarized at the link below. We have the illustrated step-by-step installation manual for the 1966-67 Skylark convertible top removal and installation. It should enable the careful handy person to perform his or her own installation. If you want help making this decision, please read the summary manual via the link below.

Hydraulics:

We now stock hydraulic cylinders, motor-pumps, and hoses for your convertible tops. All are made to OEM specifications. Each can be ordered separately; however, when ordering hydraulic cylinders we recommend replacing both. The chances are that both hydraulic cylinders were manufactured at the same time: if one is on its way out the other may follow. If the top is raised and one hydraulic cylinder is working harder than the other the result over time can lead to a slightly bent convertible top frame. The replacement of both hydraulic cylinders will ensure that the top raises and lowers symmetrically.

Systems for this car take Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) and have a 5 year warranty when used with this fluid. Brake fluid should not be used as it voids the warranty. We also offer an installation manual when ordered.

The 12 volt motor-pumps include a mounting bracket with rubber grommets to reduce vibration.

We also offer a rebuilding service for motor-pumps. Not all are repairable, but it is less expensive to have one rebuilt than to buy a new one. The motor-pump would need to be sent to us for evaluation. Hoses come with all new fittings and are made specifically to fit your car.

Rear Trim Sticks, Set: The rear trim sticks are also called the rear tacking bow set or rear base bow set. They hold the staples that bind the base of the main top and the curtain. The rear trim sticks are then bolted to the body of the car, at the studs that are in the car. Our trim sticks are the very best made. They are layers of poplar hardwood bound with cascamite marine adhesive. So they are much better at accepting and holding staples than the polyurethane bows on the market, and they will not shatter.

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