[JLarson69]

I have a 1977 Cutlass with a vinyl top and it was a nightmare when I removed it. It was completely rusted out along the entire rear glass and I had to do alot of fabricating and patching.
I plan on putting a vinyl top back since I like the look and I don't want to spend the time to get the roof and sail panels perfectly straight.
Are there any tips for preventing rust underneath a new vinyl top? Does having a padded top make a difference?
This car won't see snow or salt, but it will probably get rained on as it's my daily driver in the summer.

[302 Z28]

You have to make sure all rust has been killed or removed first. This can be a daunting challenge. Once that is done you need to follow with a high quality epoxy sealer/primer applied to a properly prepped surface. Southern Polyurethane has a very good product for this. After the epoxy is applied the vinyl top can be installed.

Vince

[BondoKing]

Vince laid it down for you bro... Lots of sanding and go with the spi epoxy once it is all perfect.. I would make sure to use 2 good wet coats and let it set overnight or for a day before you glue down the new top

Matthew

[JLarson69]

I always thought epoxy primer was porous so it had to be topcoated.
Is this Southern Polyurethane epoxy better or cheaper than PPG epoxy?

Thanks for the help.

[302 Z28]

Originally Posted by JLarson69

I always thought epoxy primer was porous so it had to be topcoated.
Is this Southern Polyurethane epoxy better or cheaper than PPG epoxy?

Thanks for the help.

A true epoxy is not porous. Some urethane primers can be used as a sealer when either the proper activator is used, or some clear is mixed with it. The SPI polyurethane is a true 2 part epoxy.

Vince