Convertible Top Replacement

[drmiles]

Hi,

I have a 1998 Boxster and plan on replacing the outer canvas cover (bad window). I was going to have a new window sewn in.

Well I just got the opportunity to buy a complete boxter top, frame and all for very cheap. It's from a 2001 Boxtser S.

My question is will a 2001 top work on a 1998 car? I noticed that the 1999 and earlier cars have an electric coonector for a microswitch and this has been omitted on later models.

Thanks for your help.

Miles :-)

[AFJuvat]

It should bolt up with little to no difficulty. Definately have an experienced upholstery shop do the install.

Welcome to the BBS

AFJuvat

[drmiles]

Thanks for the reply. I just want to confirm your response. The ENTIRE frame should work just fine on the 98 (including the electrical control)?

Why do I need an upholstery shop to intall the top? I understand using one if I'm just replacing the outer skin, but why with a bolt on replacement?

Thanks,
Miles

P.S. Please excuse me. I just like to make real sure. :-)

[drmiles]

I was hoping to get another reply to this post regarding the Convertible top.

Thanks,
Miles

[AFJuvat]

Yes, the entire frame should bolt right up to the car. the tops were changed over to a different type starting in 2003.

Still recommend an upholstery shop. It isn't quite as simple as "bolt-on" The top will require adjustment and tensioning etc.

The microswitch that was omitted is on the B-pillar behind the drivers seat. You can leave that in place when you change over to the new top and frame.

AFJuvat

[drmiles]

Thanks !!!!

Dr. Miles :-)

[Zeke]

I think the key word here is experienced. Boxster tops are just now beginning to need replacement. There are not too many shops that have seen one yet. If you can do it yourself, fine. but if you go to a shop that doesn't know what they are getting into, you might as well do it yourself. You have as much experience as they do.

[Neisman]

G'day all,

I have 44 years experience installing convertible tops.
I make installation DVDs and sell them at aoksales.com.
I do not have one for the Boxster yet, so I will install your new top on your car for $100.00 if the conditions below can be met.

Regards, Karl

1. Customer must provide a new top and window of good quality. If the car needs them, tension cables and bow pads are recommended.
I prefer EZ-on Auto Tops brand and can connect you with a reputable top reseller who will sell for a fair price, if you wish.

2. Car must currently have a top installed (Top condition does not matter).

3. We will need the car in Sunbury, PA for 3-5 business days.

4. Car must be here on a Sunday so I can start early on Monday.

5. The car must be complete and the top mechanism, doors and windows must all operate as originally designed.

6. The car must be highway legal.

7. All personal items must be removed from the car.

8. Installation may not have been started.

[mikefocke]

Karl, there are installation instructions available online from the Boxster top expert, Maurice. Perhaps a dozen sets of instructions with pictures for various scenarios.

They are copyright but free to use.

Just letting you know the competitive situation.

[funi]

Where can I find the site to look at the installation of the complete top incl frame? Thanks

[j911brick]

101 Boxster projects by Wayne Dempsy has a chapter on top replacement. Might even be in the tech section of the Pelican parts web site.