Top Frame
Restoration & Exchange
Here at Chuck's Convertible Parts we have been rebuilding VW top frames for our customers for over 30 years. We have manufactured parts needed for these repairs, and with the "newest" aircooled convertible Bug now 25 years old, we find that 95% of the top frames need major repair before a top can be installed. We now stock rebuilt top frames ready to ship on an exchange basis.
The following photos are of a 1971 Bug top frame in what we consider to be about average condition for its age. Different years require different types of work, but this 1971 top frame will give you an idea of what we offer. We typically have all year Bug and Karmann Ghia frames available, but please contact us for a stock check, or we can restore your frame to like-new condition. Please contact us for pricing.
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Shown is a 1971 top frame front header bow and side arm area. These front areas are prone to rust and are usually at least this bad. Note header bow plate almost rusted through, and holes in the side arm underneath where the rubber seals were mounted. This area can be rusted as much as 12" back.
Note that the "tab" with threaded stud for chrome centering pin is rusted away.
Old header bow plates are removed by grinding as to not change the length of the "side arms."
Then "side arms" are cut 12" back from the front.
New side arm pieces are welded in place and new header bow plates installed. Positioning of new header bow plates and side arms is critical for the proper fitment of the new header bow. Please do not try this yourself. We have received more than we care to say that have been welded improperly and sent to us for repair.
Note broken hinge pin, allowing top frame to "sag", thus affecting the window alignment to the top frame. We repair these by heating and driving out the old pin, then installing one of our newly machined parts.
Top frame showing new header bow plates with chrome pins after powder coating.
A completed frame with new header bow plates, new sidearm pieces and new front hinge pins, sandblasted and powder coated - ready for a customer's car.