Buick Special 46C, 1953
Convertible Top and Convertible Top Parts

About These Buick Special Convertible Tops:
  • Quality: Made to Buick specs, 100% fit guarantee.
  • Original Configuration: Two piece top, top section and window section joined on installation. Window section is either zippered plastic window or zippered blank section (for those with access to glass/window frame.) Molding over rear window with chrome tips supplied.
  • Original Fabrics: Haartz Stayfast Canvas in black (over black or tan), tan (over black or tan) and light neutral over tan; Haartz Pinpoint Vinyl in black or classic white.
  • Shop with confidence: Made by EZ-On with their 3 year factory warranty with 18 Month labor allowance.
  • Hydraulic Components: Hydraulic cylinders, motor pumps and hose sets all available and in stock.
All seams are doubly electronically welded and sewn for added reinforcement. Convertible top fabrics are mildew & mold resistant, and UV treated for color fastness. Plastic windows are DOT rated heavy 40 gauge thick vinyl

 

Convertible Tops and Packages

Convertible Tops and Packages

A.)

1953 Buick Special 46C Convertible

Haartz Stayfast Canvas Convertible Top
with Zippered Plastic Window Section

 
Color:

As low as:
$992.00
B.)

1953 Buick Special 46C Convertible

Haartz Stayfast Canvas Convertible Top
with Zippered Blank Rear Window Section
Color:

As low as:
$1063.00
C.) ADD A GLASS TO ANY BLANK CURTAIN
No need for a frame, this glass is built-in!
Available in two sizes 6" x 21" OR 8" x 25"
Choose from Straight or Horseshoe Zipper
Will fold with top without zipping out.
For: 1953 Buick Special 46C Convertible Top
SIZE
ZIPPER
$419.00


Installation Supplies

Installation Supplies

New Edition!!!
Convertible Top Guys' "How To Remove and Install Classic Two-Part Tops."

This 40-page, extensively illustrated how-to manual walks you through removing and installing any two-part convertible top. The manual applies to almost all American convertibles made before the year 2004, and some foreign cars, too, like Celicas and Saabs. This 8 1/2 x 11 book is designed as both a tutorial for first-time installers and as a step-by-step manual for these convertible tops. Generally, all that is needed and not contained is the "bow height" which is the setting of the rear top frame bow for your convertible. This is available from any top distributor ot can be measured with the old top on the car (as illustrated.)

What skills are required ? (1) The ability to drive staples into bow frame tacking strips (2) The ability to orient fabric sections to the frame and apply with contact cement. (3) A systematic and careful personality ! (There is never any sewing required.)

Note: Very early cars (forties) had wood bows and installers will have to adjust processes for stapling to these bows instead of tacking strips in steel bows as described in manual.

   Details...

$30.95
75" PADS WITH QUARTER SECTIONS. TAN (FOR USE WITH TAN UNDERSIDE TOPS)
$179.00
Fiberboard Tack Strip, Measures: 1/4" Thick x 5/8" Wide. Expect 2 x 26" sections.
   Details...

$9.49
Fiberboard Tack Strip, Measures: 1/4" Thick x 13/16" Wide x 52" Long, Expect 2 x 26" sections.
   Details...

$10.95
Fiberboard Tack Strip, Measures: 1/4" Thick x 3/4" Wide x 52" Long, expect 2 x 26" sections.
   Details...

$9.95
Fiberboard Tack Strip: 1/4" Thick x 7/16" Wide. Long, Expect 2 x 26" sections.
   Details...

$8.95
Fiberboard Tack Strip: 1/4" Thick x 9/16" Wide x 52" Long, expect 2 x 26" sections.
   Details...

$10.49
Front and Rear Top Frame Bow Tack Strips
(Tacking strips for most top frames. Some may vary, especially pre-60s cars.)

Dimensions: 5/8" X 3/16" and 1/2" X 1/4" (in 6 foot lengths.)
Note: These usually apply. In certain convertible top frames (especially pre-sixties) the cross sections of the header and rear top bows vary. You can measure the top bow channel cross sections and let us know if yours vary from the usual plastic ones. In that case include your tack strip selection in checkout message.
   Details...

$23.95
Standard Black Top Pad Set, includes Quarter Pads,
   Details...

$109.00
Top Pads with Quarters,Black or Tan Stayfast Canvas
   Details...

Color
View Color
$279.00
Vinyl Tacking strip, measures 5/8" WIDE X 3/16" THICK X 6 Foot long section
   Details...

$12.95
Vinyl Tacking strip, measures 1/4" THICK  X 1/2" WIDE X 6 Foot long section
   Details...

$12.95
Plastic pry tool, great for prying fasteners and seals, pushing seals into retainers, loosening fabric etc
$12.95
Vinyl Tacking Strips: Measures 5/8" X 3/16" Sold by the foot.
   Details...

$2.25
Vinyl Tacking Strips: Measures 1/2" X 1/4" Sold by the foot.
   Details...

$2.25
The Arrow T50ACD electric staple gun drives wire staples with force. It will securely drive 1/4" and 3/8" staples into modern convertible top tack strips, eliminating the need for an air gun for convertible top installation. This stapler comes with the a supply of 1/4" and 3/8" staples.

This stapler also has a brad driving capability, so you can use this stapler again and again for a variety of jobs.

The Arrow T50ACD packs a well-balanced powerful, durable design. Comes complete with 10-foot, heavy-duty cord, a supply of T50 series staples, and a one-year manufacturer's warranty.

The Arrow T50ACD stapler has a spiral driven mechanism for consistent powerful driving power. Additional features include safety trigger lock, comfortable non-slip cushion grip, fastener reload, all-steel working parts, and 14-amp motor.
   Details...

$59.95
ARROW RIVET TOOL KIT RL100 rivet tool is built to last Durable all-steel construction with a - comfortable hi-vis vinyl grip Spring loaded handle makes for easy loading Includes two interchangeable nose pieces & - 25 ea. 1/8" & 3/16" medium aluminum rivets Includes custom molded case for easy storage and 50 of our two most popular rivets 25 each of 1/8 medium rivet and 25 each of 3/16 medium rivets.
$22.95
Staples and Glue Kit: 500 each of 1/4" & 3/8" Stainless Steel Staples (22 gauge). Plus an 8oz Can of Trimmer Contact Cement with Brush.

The staples in this package are narrow crown
stainless steel staples and will fit
popular air guns. If you wish to use an electric
staple gun then you will need to order our
heavy duty electric gun and its (different) staples.

Please see the "tools and accessories" link
on our home page for electric gun packages.

   Details...

$24.95
Arrow T-50 Stainless Staples, 1/4", 300 Count

 

$4.95
Arrow T-50 Stainless-Steel Staples 3/8", 300 Count

 

$4.95
Arrow T-50 Stainless-Steel Staples, 3/8", 1000 Count

 

$13.95
Arrow T-50 Stainless-Steel Staples, 1/4", 1000 Count
$13.95
Trimmer Contact Cement: 4-Oz. Brush Top Can. Strong, Waterproof, Flexible Bond for Vinyl-coated and Vinyl-laminated Fabrics.
$14.95
Trimmer Contact Cement: 8-Oz. Brush Top Can. Strong, Waterproof, Flexible Bond for Vinyl-coated and Vinyl-laminated Fabrics.
$20.95
Plastic pry tool set, 7-piece kit

Great for prying fasteners and seals, pushing seals into retainers, loosening fabric etc.

$34.95


Hydraulics

Hydraulics

"O" Ring Motor Pump Service Kit For Any American Makes

Our O-Ring kit contains the following items:(1) Drive Pin, (1) 1/8" Chrome Ball, (2) 1/4" Chrome Ball, (2) Pump Port O-Ring, (2) Reservoir O-Ring, (1) Reservoir bolt O-Ring, (1) Reservoir plug, (1)Reservoir Plug O-Ring (metal plug only).

$24.95
1951-54 GM 6 Volt Convertible Top Hydraulic Motor Pump, Mounts Vertically.
$369.00
1953 Only, Buick Special, Olds 88,98 Convertible Top Hydraulic Lift Cylinders, Pair.

All convertible top cylinders are not the same. Our top cylinders are made from solid aluminum castings which are stronger than die-cast and our two-piece rod allows us to use a heavier, stronger steel. You won't find a better made convertible top cylinder on the market. All cylinders are made and assembled here in the U.S.A. and come with a 7 year warranty.
$279.95
Convertible & Window Firewall Pump, 12 Volt
  • Fits: 1946-1948 Chrysler
  • 1946-1954 Buick, Cadillac, Oldsmobile
  • 1946-1950 Chevrolet, Pontiac
  • 1946-1951 Ford, Lincoln, Mercury
  • 1948-1954 Hudson, Packard
$1038.00
Chrome universal 6 volt toggle switch with wiring. Replaces original switch and wiring to connect directly with 6 Volt Motor Pump with no additional relays required. All wires are tagged for easy installation. Includes crimp connectors to attach wiring to motor and nylon tie straps to hide wiring.
$85.95
Convertible Hydraulic hose set, For GM makes 1950-1961

Half straight fittings and half 90 degree.
$139.95
DOES NOT REPLACE ORIGINAL RELAYS. This wire adapter is used to connect new 6 Volt Motor pump using original switch and wiring. No applicable for cars that originally had hydraulic windows. Includes instructions.
$45.95
FLAT GROMMET FEET FOR EARLY MOTOR PUMP, 4 PIECES
$14.95
Hydraulic System Guide: A well illustrated 10 page, 8 1/2 x 11 guide to the operation, diagnosis, and bleeding of the motor pump and to the motor/pump and cylinder removal and reassembly. Diagnosis includes electrical testing procedures.
$9.95
Set of 4 New Pointed Pump Grommets
$7.95
Top Cylinder Mounting Bolt, One.
With Pin and Bushings
1 5/8" Long, 3/8" Diameter.
$11.95
Top Cylinder Mounting Bolt, One
With Pin and Bushings.
1 1/8" Long, 3/8" in Diameter.
$11.95
Top Cylinder White Nylon Bushing, Each
$2.95
Motor pump reservoir plug, black rubber
$2.39


Boots

Boots

Convertible Top Boot, Attaches as Original - In Original Madrid Vinyl.
Includes 35 Snaps and & Snap Installation Tool

Fits 1953 Cadillac and 1953 Buick Special

View Color
$355.00
Convertible Top Boot Bag
$33.95


Cleaning & Protectant

Cleaning & Protectant

A PACKAGE SPECIAL:
A Combination Pack of RAGGTOPP Brand Canvas Cleaner & Protectant.
  • Plus:
  • Raggtopp Convertible Top Plastic Window Cleaner and Protectant Kit.
  • The Natural Horsehair Convertible Top Cleaning Brush
$79.95
A Combination Pack of RAGGTOPP Brand Canvas Cleaner & Protectant

About RAGGTOPP products
$39.95
A PACKAGE SPECIAL:
A Combination Pack of the RAGGTOPP Brand Vinyl Cleaner and Protectant.
  • Plus:
  • Raggtopp Convertible Top Plastic Window Cleaner and Protectant Kit.
  • The Natural Horsehair Convertible Top Cleaning Brush
$79.95
A Combination Pack of the RAGGTOPP Brand Vinyl Cleaner and Protectant Together

About RAGGTOPP products
$38.95
Raggtopp Convertible Top Plastic Window Cleaner and Protectant Kit

Contains:

  • Bottle Window Cleaner
  • Bottle Window Protectant
  • Sponge, Applicator Pad
  • Microfiber Towel

About RAGGTOPP products
$32.95
Natural Horsehair Convertible Top Cleaning Brush

About Natural Horsehair Brush
$14.95


Top Switch, Relays, Etc.

Top Switch, Relays, Etc.

Top Switch
Activates Raising/Lowering.
Heavy Duty: Rated for 50 amps.
Mount in any under dash hole.
$34.95


Important Information

Original Factory Color(s): Black and GM White

Fabrics:
The original Buick tops of 1953 were in canvas material. Modern Haartz Stayfast canvas is anti-fade treated and of the highest quality. We also offer Haartz Pinpoint vinyl tops. You can read more details about topping fabrics at the "HELP" link at the top of this page.

Windows:
We supply the top with either a zippered plastic rear window or as a "blank curtain." The blank curtain (curtain is the term for the rear window section) is solid fabric. It is intended for restorers who have access to rear window frameworks that can be applied separately after the top is installed.

Pads:
Wrapped foam pad sections are applied under the top to 'build out' the top. We can supply the pad sets.

Tack Strips:
Tack strips are embedded in the front (header) frame bow and in the rear top bow (the one over the rear window.) They receive staples that hold the top to the frame along these bows.

Installation:
This is a classic two part top. The 'main top' and the 'curtain' are integrated during the installation process. The procedure can be seen via the blue link below to our booklet on installing classic two part tops.

If you are comfortable renting and using an air driven staple gun then you are a likely candidate for do-it-yourself installation. This involves stapling and gluing. There is no sewing.

Boots:
A convertible top stowage boot is optional. We strongly recommend boots made of modern boot vinyl. These have a slight "give" and a broad array of color choices. Boots made in this fabric are much easier to use than boots made of topping fabric. Usually a boot is chosen in a color to coordinate with the paint and/or interior.

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 1 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.

CONVERTIBLE TOP FABRICS
Almost all manufacturers use Haartz fabrics. They may specify "heaviest weight" or "original replacement" in ways that seem reassuring. But they do not really tell the whole story. Please bear in mind that two things dominate, by far, the quality issue: (a) the manufacturing quality control in the factory that makes the top and (b) the care and thoroughness of the installation. There is a trade-off in weight: heavier is better for resisting tear through, but lighter is better for flexibility and abrasion from within that may arise from movement. Almost all our tops are a flexible medium density (36 oz.) fabric. Heavier is not better in most cases. Where it is, because of the top design, we will say so and the top will be made of the heavier vinyl.
Warranties outlined here are only applicable for products installed by a professional trim shop or professional upholstery shop. For Convertible Tops, and related products, the manufacturer will void the warranty for any product that is not professionally installed; manufacturer defects are covered by the warranty in such cases. The manufacturer is not responsible for damage due to improper installation.