The Chevrolet Cavalier was introduced in 1982. Then from 1983 to 2001, convertible Cavaliers saw changes in their convertible top design. If you're purchasing a replacement Chevrolet Cavalier convertible top, please be aware of mid-year changes in the soft-top design, like for instance, in the 1993 Chevrolet Cavalier (see section below). You'll need to properly identify the correct replacement convertible (soft) top for your Chevy Cavalier convertible.

We offer Chevrolet Cavalier convertible tops in a variety of fabrics and colors. Our Best Buy Chevrolet Cavalier packages offer the most bang-for-the-buck. Ready to buy a Chevrolet Cavalier top? Click on a link at the right.

The 1993 Chevrolet Cavalier Convertible

In 1993, Chevrolet made two models of the Cavalier convertible. To get a Cavalier top that fits correctly, you'll need to know which one you need before making a purchase. So how do you tell which 1993 Chevrolet Cavalier convertible top you need? Here are a few guidelines:

How do I Choose A Chevrolet Cavalier Convertible Top Fabric?

Over the years, the Chevrolet Cavalier convertible top was offered in three fabrics: Haartz Pinpoint Vinyl, Haartz Stayfast Canvas, and Chrysler Sailcloth Vinyl. Here's what you need to know about each before making a purchase:

Haartz Pinpoint Vinyl: Haartz Pinpoint Vinyl is a two-ply composite with a PVC outer layer and a cotton inner lining. Haartz Pinpoint Vinyl is a popular convertible top fabric. Up until 1998, the original Chevrolet Cavalier convertible top was made of Haartz Pinpoint Vinyl. (After 1998, the original Cavalier top fabric was changed to Chrysler Sailcloth Vinyl, which you'll read about below.) In fact, this 36-ounce vinyl is original to most American cars made before 1993. Pinpoint refers to the little dots on the vinyl surface. If you take care of a Haartz pinpoint vinyl convertible top, it can easily last 10 years.

Haartz Stayfast Canvas: If you're looking to upgrade your vinyl top, consider a convertible top made of Haartz Stayfast Canvas. This fabric is the American substitute for the elegant German canvases used in Mercedes, Porsche, BMW. Haartz Stayfast Canvas is a three-ply composite material made of an acrylic square weave outer fabric, a butyl rubber core, and a cotton lining. The butyl rubber core promises to make Haartz Stayfast Canvas last a very long time. This canvas is a little richer looking than the vinyl. It's also a little harder to clean. Stayfast Canvas has both better static and dynamic wear ratings than any vinyl top.

Chrysler Sailcloth: You'll find this 36-ounce vinyl on many late LeBarons, Sebrings, and certain Mustangs. After 1998, this material became the original Chevrolet Cavalier convertible top fabric. Designed to imitate canvas, Sailcloth vinyl is exceptionally rich in appearance and has the wear-and-tear durability of Haartz Pinpoint Vinyl. The real difference between the two comes in the texture of the fabric, and also, the two soft-top vinyls come in different colors.

Chevy Cavalier Cables and Other Convertible Top Parts:

If you're installing your first Chevy Cavalier replacement top, most likely all that you'll need is a new set of hold down cables and the top itself. (Replacements after that will likely require convertible top bow tacking strips and padding.) Still, if you're doing your own convertible top installation it's more cost effective to install all new convertible top parts. Each of our Cavalier convertible pages lists convertible top restoration packages with all parts required for do-it-yourself installation.

Looking for the most bang for the buck? Check out our Chevy Cavalier convertible top Best Buy packages. Ready to start shopping? Click on a link at the right.

Chevy Cavalier 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.

Two Part Tops: Can I Install Myself?
The Chevrolet Cavalier convertible tops are in the "classic two part convertible top" category. We offer a profusely illustrated convertible top manual, now in its fourth edition. This covers, in detail, all the steps for do-it-yourself convertible top installation. In particular, the manual applies to these cars which all have a two part convertible top. Owners may purchase the manual to review it before purchasing a convertible top package. We would then pro-rate future purchase of the convertible top when it is ordered.

If you can use an air compressor driven staple gun, and are patient and methodical, you are very likely to be able to install any of these convertible tops. The convertible top packages include everything needed in most cases. (Convertible top frame seals must be ordered separately if required.)

Note that there is no sewing involved in installing a two part convertible top. There is stapling and there is manipulation of the top fabric which in places is applied with contact cement. Our convertible top packages include stainless steel staples and the very best grade of contact cement with brush. Please click the link to your convertible top page for more information.