Targa Top rebuilds

[carsinc]

It seems that everyone is getting into the act of rebuilding Targa Tops.These people see it as making money not providing a meaningful service. Want to find out how good they are? Ask these questions.
1. Ask them to tell you about the fixture they use to keep the top square during process.
2. Ask them the difference between a 76 and a 77 Top.
3. Ask them for a pic of a stripped frame that has been webbed.
4. Ask them what year Porsche went to the roller latch and why.
5. Ask them how they lubricate the latches so they work properly.
6. Ask them for a sample of the the vinyl, reinforcement and webbing they use.
7. Ask them for a pic of the underside after they are done.
There are many more "As them" questions but you get the idea of the level of knowledge needed. I have made perfect tops for over 30 years, one top at a time.

If you want the full list of Ask them question contact me.
Targadan

[BR-549]

Thanks Dan.

BTW, how do you lubricate the latches so they work properly (on an 87)?

Ken

[Jack Stands]

I think Dan has the right approach by doing the entire job correctly to give a long service life. For most Targa owners, it’s a one time rebuild and certainly cheaper than replacing the top on a cabriolet.

[darrin]

Originally Posted by Jack Stands

I think Dan has the right approach by doing the entire job correctly to give a long service life. For most Targa owners, it’s a one time rebuild and certainly cheaper than replacing the top on a cabriolet.

Agree! Dan did a comprehensive rebuild of mine in 2008 (after prior diy and local repairs failed to provide satisfactory results) and it's still going strong over a decade later

[carsinc]

The Roller latch of a 87 is a very complex piece which is prone to breaking due to design. There are about 28 piece to the latch where as the 90 newer Tragas has 6. Grease needs to be applied to the tumbler on the inside of the front arm. This can be gotten to by propping up top like a teepee with the vinyl up like on the car. You will see the lever and stop, that is where the grease goes. The roller spins only about 90% any more you need to replace latch. Easy job to replace.
Also, play may develop in the latch with age. The latch can be adjusted tighter by loosing 3 allen bolts and moving latch closer to top. Same allens are used to remove latch.

[BR-549]

Thank you Dan. One day you will get my top for a rebuild, but for now I will lube the rollers and keep rolling.

Thanks again for the thorough answer.

Ken