63-65 Riviera Convertibles

I have seen 2 pictures of convertible Riv's, and I know they were never manufactured. One (won't let me attach due to copyright, see link) seems like a full functioning top, the other looked like a carson top (picture from HAMB member). I would think that the normal top (link) below was from a similar platform donor, but I have no idea what that might be. Or maybe a 1 off concept or something, but I sort of doubt that. Or even an 82 riv donor car?

Does anyone know anything about how this was accomplished? What the donor might have been, etc.? I'm really considering going this route, but want to get an idea of what I'd be biting off beforehand. And if anyone knows the car or has more pics, please let me know.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/splattergraphics/3740494205/

 

When I had my Riv, I belonged to the Riviera Owners ***oc (ROA) and a guy in the club had one. It was similar to the one in the link, but a little rattier. That was years ago, maybe he finished it by now? Anyway, I can't recall what top was used, I want to say a Pontiac, but not sure. You might contact the ROA if you can't get answers here.

 

The black one looks great. But the red one? YIKES. Looks like a drum of red paint threw up

 

Several years ago I converted a 76 cad Eldorado's coupe to a convertible. To do a conversion & make it look factory it is a boat load of work but can be done, if you have the kahones to tackle the project. you will need a full size Chev, Pontiac or Buick convertible donor of the same body family then go for it or pay the $$$ & have me do it.

 

Can't argue with you there.

I've never had a carson top, certainly would be easier but they sometimes look clunky, and no clue if it would be functional

For the donor, do you guys think the width and curve of the windshield from Chev/Pontiac/Buick for a given year and platform would be close enough?

 

Cant say I know anything about this, and sorry for being a little OT. But I had to wonder if there are any added reinforcements on the X frame vehicles, with factory convertible tops. Seems like it might get a little twisty, but I certainly don't know much about it.

 

^^ now that's a gorgeous Rivvy

 

Would certainly need some increased rigidity. That is why I'm wondering if a front/rear sheetmetal graft onto a donor would be easier than taking the convertible mechanism out and transplanting onto the Riv with all ***ociated bracing.

Any of you guys with more metal experience have a gut feel?

 

The front fenders look great on a Caddy

 

This one was at Goodguys Del Mar this year...

 

Here was the info on it...

 

There was a fellow in san diego that did the one in the ROA . He also made a trailer of front & rear mated together. If memory serves me correct he used the windshield posts & top parts from a skylark I believe. I'm not home so don't have pics or all info @ present. you might try ROA website for more info

 

several years ago (15-20) there was a convertible 1st generation monte carlo somewhere in iowa. i talked with the owner/builder once. he used a cutlas top. the car looked good with the top down but the lines just weren't right with the top up.

doesn't help with your question, but may be food for thought. at least if you try this do a photoshop of the car and the top together to see if it will look "right" before you cut up a car and then realize you don't like it.

b-t-w; the red one might have looked good if they wouldn't have dechromed it.

 

This is it, thanks so much. So looks like they probably cut it at the trunkline and windshield pillars.

 

You can use the windshield, top, and inner structure from a 65-66 Impala, Tempest, or Skylark convertible.

I've always wanted to go the opposite direction and use a 65-66 Impala hardtop roof on a Riviera for a more streamlined look. I love the look of the 63-65 Rivieras except for the roof. It's too square and the rear window needs to be laid out more to match the rest of the lines on the car.

 

Here's some more pics that show the top bows;

http://www.cardomain.com/ride/316154...-buick-riviera

 

Wow, all that PLUS a 4-speed Muncie, 401 Nailhead bored .30 over AND dual fours?

 

Make it a speedster!
Seriously, how are the undercarriages of these cars beefed up? Or do they need it at all.

 

I'm the lucky guy near San Diego to have found the black one above in 2009 in Long Beach, CA. It was 90% done; just needed finishing touches. The paint finish is top notch; done in mid 90s I think and just now starting to age a bit. The canvas top is from a '65 Tempest - but the frame had to be sectioned because the Riv isn't as wide as full size GMs of the era. Hard to believe.
The top does fold (scissors style), but is not trivial operation as it's heavy and not powered. I garage it of course and only put it up for photographs. It does maintain the original sharp lines IMHO and I had windows cut for it so it seals pretty well. The suspension and brakes are stock (for now) and adequate. Despite it's muscle-car upgrades, I drive it gently for show.
I miss showing it. It only needs a tune-up and maintenance which I hope to get to this winter.
Frank