How to tell Hurst for Fisher T-tops??
These easiest way is to look at the size of the two tops. Hurst T-tops are smaller measuring approximately 30-1/4" long x 17 1/2" wide. The center of the roof has a 12" If you look at a car from 1976-77 with T-tops and look at the center of the roof in between the tops, you will see about 12 inches or so of roof between them. The Fisher tops were larger, they were 33 1/2" long x 22 1/4" wide. If you look at a car from late 1978-81 with T-tops and look at the center of the roof in between the tops, you will see only about 4 inches or so of roof between them (See Below). The next difference is the latching mechanisms. Hurst T-tops had two latches that held it in place, one on either end of the top. Fisher T-tops had one latch in the center of the tops.
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Hurst T-tops | Fisher T-tops |
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Hurst 1st and 2nd Design T-tops
Hurst T-tops were made in two different designs, 1st or 2nd Design. The 1st Design is the most common of the Hurst equipped T-top Trans Am models. The two designs are easy to tell apart. The 1st Design, the weather-stripping around the T-tops is used hold the headliner in place. The 2nd Design required a hard plastic trim to secure the headliner in place, similar to the Fisher Body style T-tops.
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First Design | Second Design |
Aftermarket T-top ConversionsCars and Concepts & American T-tops were the 2 big aftermarket companies converting hardtops into T-tops. Cars and Concepts T-tops are very easy to spot as the T-tops actually touch each other in the middle of the roof. There is no gab in between the T-tops when installed. The American T-tops look very similar to Hurst T-tops, American Tops are just a bit wider by 2.5" or so. The American T-top panel measures 30.5" long and 19.75" deep. If you're looking for replacement parts for either the Cars and Concepts or American T-tops you simply are out of luck. Both companies are no longer in business and no replacement parts are available. | |
American | Cars and Concepts |