Auto body repair & detailing: carriage top removal, pontiac bonneville, 2000 pontiac bonneville

Question
Brian -

I am considering buying a 2000 Pontiac Bonneville that has had an ugly aftermarket carriage (fake-convertible look) top added to it.  Beasue this is an aftermarket top, I assume there is a regular looking roof underneath.  What does it take to remove one of these tops, and what damage will have been done to the original roof that will need to be repaired?

Any info you can give would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Zach

Answer
On some of these fake tops there may or maynot be enough paint underneath the top so you might have to remove the glue an refinsh it. In most cases there are a few screw holes into the roof that will have to be welded in. It is a very easy job taking off the fake top . start by taking all screws out. then start at the front and gently start prying the top off.  Use a puttyknife for leverage an scraping the glue .from the top ..Do not destroy the fake top for if there is severe damage you might want to put it back on.  If it is a factory top they didnt finish the bodywork underneath because the knew it would be covered. If aftermarket. it was put on at a dealership, it will be much easier to work with because the paint and bodywork will be done. Write back if you have more questions.


                   Good Luck Brian