Revitalize Vintage Soft Top

This Panorama (brand) top came in the box with my 1970 Renegade I. It seems to be all there, but obviously the windows are shot. I’ve sourced the proper 40 gauge clear vinyl material to replace. I may tackle on my own. Anyone know how to pry away and remove the old clear vinyl that was bonded electronically sealed to the black vinyl edges? Many thanks in advance for any tips. Photo of the top on the Jeep it just draped over. Not yet fitted.

 

The 64 came with a 1976 soft top. The windows are red, like that one. I'll be watching this thread.
Once I get the body back on, I will need to do something with the top or replace it.

Dave

 

Wow I love the art on that box! Can't wait to see how this turns out.

 

My guess is you will end up cutting the material just along the edge of the heat-weld of the window vinyl, or maybe cut the clear window section leaving the heat weld section for more strength. Possibly you can peel the window vinyl away after careful warming with a heat gun? You don’t have much to loose.
New window vinyl would likely need to be stitched back, but that may raise more problems if the black fabric is crispy, making a perforated place to tear.
I’m in an area with a few or more boat top companies that do custom work ($$$$). The clear vinyl they use is a product called Isinglass or Strataglass.
Before you go to a lot of work, check the stitching thread to see if it is rotting. I remember one of my early tops coming apart at all the seams as the (cotton?) thread rotted out.
-Donny

 

On those old tops, if you pull on the thread, it all unravels. Not sure you can stitch up my old top.

Dave

 

What a cool feature, having 2 clear top panels!

 

Thanks for all the replies and input! The thread is in great shape and holding well. The black vinyl needs a good cleaning, but it is very pliable and flexible. That’s one of the reasons I want to replace all the window material. It’s a great example of a vintage top that can be saved. I have a brand new super top for my 65 and I just don’t like the new styling as much as the vintage details. I have another top for my 67 but it is in way worse shape. I was surprised how good the material was on this one.

I have a very good marine canvas shop near me. I will stop in and see what they think it would cost.