I got a tear about an inch and a half long. The main problem is its location at the right rear just above where the top hides behind the chrome strip. See 2 photos below, first from outside and second from inside:
Before small tear turns into a big issue I want to repair it. My initial thought was to get a repair kit and first use duct tape on the outside to hold the material together while I do the repair from the inside in the best possible way. Then test the opening and closing of the power top and when happy repair from the outside in the most discrete possible way.
When my dad had his 67 Parisienne convertible, the top was full of patches but they were located in areas easier to work with with. I don't want it to look like a patch job but I understand the location is tricky. Has anyone ever done this repair? If so what do you suggest? Also what is a good repair kit out there? I went by CT but didn't see anything suitable. Any different ideas?
If the rest of the top is still really good, first, I'd try taking it to someone who specializes in tops and the like for a repair quote (or to find out if it even can be done). If yes, it's likely they could repair it as such to be not all that noticeable and long lasting.
I know there is always some decent cost involved in any pro work, but a diy solution will probably be iffy at best especially in that location. Just my opinion mind you.
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65 Laurentian post, 67 Grande Parisienne 4 door HT.
The top is really nice on the outside, definitely not ready to be changed any time soon. I started looking around but I guess will have to wait patiently until the spring as the best thing to do is to bring the car and show the rip.
having sold convertible tops for 30 years most shops will not repair a tear on a convertible top with any type of warranty. It is almost impossible to to do without it being visible. But shop around and good luck !
Still, you never know Leo, there might be someone here that can suggest some kind of system to make a half decent repair.
Yeah, that's what I hope for, someone that had the experience. In the end I can show it to the guys that changed my seat upholstery in 2016, they might be able to help although sometimes when it's a very small job they may not be interested.
A leather, plastic & vinyl repair shop has confirmed they are able to repair it in the spring based on the photos I sent them however they believe the tear will be visible from the outside, which does not surprise me. I'll keep looking but if this gets to be the best option then afterwards I'll worry about the exterior look. The most important thing is that the tear doesn't become larger.
