About the Karmann Ghia convertibles: There are two different Karmann Ghia convertibles. In the middle of 1969 Karmann Ghia convertibles were somewhat redesigned: the plastic rear window was replaced by a large hinged glass window. This design change in the Karmann Ghia convertible necessitated a change in the convertible top framework. The wood bows in the convertible top frame were also redesigned.

This restoration has been tackled by many owners though it is a rather long process. Once the steel folding frame has been rendered suitable the wood bows need to be attached to the convertible top frame. In the earlier Karmann Ghia convertibles there is a bow along the base line which anchors the back of the Ghia convertible top. In the later Ghias this bow was eliminated and the rear of the Ghia convertible top is fastened to the body with a cable. The two other bows function similarly in the mid '69 and later Karmann Ghia convertibles but the front bow was radically redesigned.

In all Karmann Ghia convertibles existing wood front bows are difficult to attach properly. The angle of the wood bow must be carefully adjusted (using shims in the later convertible top bow, so that the lip of the bow meets the windshield properly. This was done too in the Karmann Ghia convertibles at the original factory installation.) Note that the plates that hold the late front bow are often rusted and require replacement. There is a source (that we use) for replacement plates and they work fairly well but only in conjunction with careful alignment work. (We have detected variations in the way the replacement plate pins--the ones that go through the bow-- are manufactured.) All in all this is an interesting and challenging procedure but one that we have seen done very well.

Subject your Ghia convertible top framework to careful restoration. Then secure replacement oonvertible top bows and apply. We recommend that you avoid the plastic bows, especially the front bows. This is because they require drilling of mounting holes for the insertion of the front bow plate pins. The wood bows are pre-drilled. Also, the plastic used in Ghia convertible bows has a tendency to chip away upon stapling. Once the wood bows are successfully installed and aligned in the top frame the hardest part is over !

Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible Top

We offer VW convertible tops for the classic VW Karmann Ghia. We also offer Restoration Package Specials, which include everything you need (cables, rubber seals, padding) to install your Karmann Ghia convertible top.

VW Convertible Top Fabrics

Our VW Karmann Ghia convertible tops are made by a German replacement-top specialist, and they have been installed in many prize-winning VW Karmann Ghia restorations. Volkswagen soft tops come in Haartz pinpoint vinyl and canvas. Haartz pinpoint vinyl is the choice top of a majority of our Volkswagen Karmann Ghia customers. This classic top is original to many classic American and foreign convertibles. Canvas topping is the most durable and elegant. Please click the link at the right to find the best Volkswagen Karmann Ghia convertible top for you.

Convertible Top Specialists

We have specialized in Volkswagen Karmann Ghia convertible tops and VW Karmann Ghia convertible top parts, for many years. We manufacture the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia top hold down cables for the industry. We also manufacture wood bows (real wood, not plastic) for installing the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia convertible top on classic air-cooled Karmann Ghia convertibles. Our factory makes the finest classic Volkswagen replacement tops in the industry. Top shops have used our Volkswagen Karmann Ghia convertible tops since we started in business in 1974. Please use our support email (support@mtmfg.com) for queries about any Volkswagen Karmann Ghia convertible tops or Ghia convertible top parts and accessories.

Looking for VW Karmann Ghia convertible top parts?

Find them here via the links to Karmann Ghia convertible top parts shown on this page.

Other Karmann Ghia Parts

Along with VW Karmann Ghia convertible tops and Karmann Ghia convertible top parts, we also offer other Volkswagen Karmann Ghia parts, including floor pans and other Karmann Ghia sheet metal, hubcaps, manuals books, Ghia bumper replacement parts etc.

For VW Karmann Ghia seat covers, door panels, carpets, other Karmann Ghia upholstery we offer original replacement in all available colors. Our Karmann Ghia catalog is on line and reviewed and updated weekly. You can bookmark this link to our Karmann Ghia parts catalog:
http://www.mtmfg.com/catalog/karmann/ghia
Also please note that we have knowledable staff here to assist you if you wish to call or email. Contact information is at the top of this page.

Doing a Major Karmann Ghia Convertible Restoration ?

Aside from all of the body work required when you find that Karmann Ghia "project car" you will have much to attend to on the Ghia convertible top frame. Once you obtain or repair the Ghia folding convertible top frame the fun begins ! Make sure your convertible top frame works well and is protected against rust etc. Then obtain genuine Karmann Ghia convertible top wood bows. Plastic Ghia top bows will diminish the quality of your restoration. Please insist of real wood Ghia convertible top bows !