Buick Gran Sport, Skylark & Special, 1968-72
Convertible Top and Convertible Top Parts

Fabrics: Pinpoint vinyl is the classic original topping. It has tiny hemispheres as the surface texture. Haartz Stayfast canvas is a three layer fabric with an elegant canvas outer face. The bonding central layer is butyl rubber which gives the top maximum durability.

Zippered and Unzippered Rear Windows: Earlier Buick rear windows were zippered. The window could be lowered with the top up. The trade-off was that the top was more difficult to install. The lowering of the window became unpopular too, and the zipper was eventually eliminated as a dealer option. We do offer the option, but recommend the unzippered window for durability and ease of installation.

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.

The full manual for installing these 1968-72 Buick tops is available. It is included with our top reatoration package specials.

Installation should be considered by do-it-yourselfers who are comfortable with renting and using an air driven staple gun and the use of contact cement. There is no sewing involved.

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 boots fit as originally designed. Boots and boot clips are listed with "Accessories."

Installation manual: The manual for classic two part tops is summarized at the link below. Reading this summary will help you decide upon self installation. It involves stapling and gluing. There is no sewing.

We also have the illustrated step-by-step installation manual for these 1968-72 Buicks convertible tops' removal and installation. It should enable the careful handy person to perform his or her own installation. This is the manual that is included with our package specials.

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.