convertible top install - where to go to get it done right

Came across a decent deal on a B-body convertible. The metal work is done and the car is painted - but it needs a new top and interior. Yeah, I know it's not a 67-69 Barracuda fastback which I have been focused on finding, but I do like a cool ragtop for summer cruising.

So here is my dilema - interior work I can do, but putting a new top on? I don't think so. After reading this thread over on Cuda-Challenger dot com http://www.cuda-challenger.com/cc/index.php?topic=44869.150 about a guy installing one himself on a Challenger I don't think I even want to attempt it.

So, if I do go for this 'vert, I need a recommendation as to a good top shop that does quality work without taking me to the cleaners. I would prefer to keep it within a 100 mi radius of St Louis if I can. Also would like to know what a typical top install should run me? Anyone have one installed lately? Would like to get some ballpark figures so I can compare them to the estimates from the shops.

Thanks in advance for the recommendations!

Best to go see what is available in your area in person and then compare prices based on what your eyes have shown you. I have seen some pretty nasty installs done by so called professionals.

There's a place here called M&M Glass, they do interior work, windshields, custom interiors, and convertible tops. They are good and have been around a while, just a bit farther than 100 miles from St. Louis.


They did a great job installing the seat covers for my son's Challenger.

Tom I have a guy that works with me that did them at his previous job. I will talk to him today about it.

The best bet is to ask other convertible owners in your area for installer recommendations! Most convertible guys know who does a good job or bad job, as there are not too many installers out there and word of good ones is like money in the bank!

My best guess about the price is around $1000 for the materials and labor to install a top correctly! Geof

Oklacarcollecto said:

I have seen some pretty nasty installs done by so called professionals.

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I hear you there! Definitely want to avoid that

krazykuda said:

There's a place here called M&M Glass, they do interior work, windshields, custom interiors, and convertible tops. They are good and have been around a while, just a bit farther than 100 miles from St. Louis.

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Oh? Where might they be? Thanks!

toplscuda said:

Tom I have a guy that works with me that did them at his previous job. I will talk to him today about it.

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That would be great - thanks!

cosgig said:

The best bet is to ask other convertible owners in your area for installer recommendations! Most convertible guys know who does a good job or bad job, as there are not too many installers out there and word of good ones is like money in the bank!

My best guess about the price is around $1000 for the materials and labor to install a top correctly! Geof

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You're right. Doesn't matter what make the top is on - if it's good it's good and same for it being bad. Was kind of thinking the same as for the cost. Thanks!

RzeroB said:

Oh? Where might they be? Thanks!

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They are in Midlothian, IL a south west suburb of Chicago just off 147th street. Just hop on I-55 north and take it to I-80 east to Harlem ave north to 147th street east.

They can replace a windshield while you wait for 30 - 45 minutes! They also carry a variety of materials to do custom interior work. I saw a nice interior that he did for a boat from scratch with the materials in stock - it was very nice.

M & M Auto Glass & Upholstery Service
4047 147th St Midlothian, IL 60445
(708) 232-3814


That is also where I got the picture of this sign (so it may help to be friendly with them)....

View attachment Pricing c.jpg

*********************************************************
Here is a description and link from their web site:


M & M Auto Glass and Trim

Fast, Friendly, Reliable Service

M & M Glass is a family-owned business serving the Chicago area for over 60 years. We service all makes and models of cars. We pride ourselves on our top-notch customer service and competitive prices. No one else can top us!We service all makes and models of cars, trucks, and vans. We have a complete stock of auto glass for American and foreign automobiles. Don't ignore a simple crack in your windshield. It could spread over time and become a hazard to you or to others on the road.

With our fast service, you will be out in no time!

Services Include:

Auto & Truck glass replacement

Auto & Truck glass repair

Heavy equipment glass replacement

Auto upholstery & carpet repair/replacement

Leather interior replacement

Boat upholstery

Convertible top repair and replacement

Power window repair


http://www.mmautoglassandtrim.com/

Also, if you have a favorite body shop locally, stop and ask them if they have any recommendations. The shop that is painting my Challenger convertible has mentioned that they have a guy that they can call and he will come pick up the seats and top and replace them through the body shop.

But if you decide to use M & M Glass, let me know when you come up. If I'm available, we can have lunch. I can show you where Bachelor's Grove is, google it. It is an old abandoned cemetary in the forest preserve not far from M & M Glass that they say is haunted.


Here's a few links on Bachelor's Grove:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bachelor's_Grove_Cemetery


http://www.bachelors-grove.com/


http://www.yelp.com/biz/bachelors-grove-cemetery-midlothian


Here's an article by Brad Bettenhausen. If the last name sounds familiar, it should. He's related to the Bettenhausen Indy car family (Tony Bettenhausen). The Bettenhausens are very active members in Tinley Park, and own a Jeep dealer, Dodge dealer, and Fiat dealer in Tinley Park. The community recreation center in Tinley Park is named after the Bettenhausens.

http://bachelorsgrove.com/

Little farther than 100 miles but know 2 guys that I would recommend for any interior or top work

My top was about $1,100 with new pads and cloth top

Kent's upholstery in Beech Grove did my top

Indy auto trim did my interior, they are both EXCELLENT in convertible tops.

Come to the Indy swap meet next month and have them do the car, TOO SOON, come to MONSTER MOPAR and get it done then

But if you want a wrinkle free top come to Indy.

Let me know if you want the number for one of them.