...targa backdate ...to soft window
 

..already posted WTB targa soft window frame on the "for sale" board...has anyone done this that can help shed some light on the swap? Car is a '76 targa that is travelling back to pre-'73. It is losing weight, and becoming much stiffer...SSIs and sport exhaust. Would REALLY like to make the heavy rear window disappear and retro a soft window. Found a couple sources for the soft window itself, but can't find a frame. If I find one and duplicate it...anybody interested in a copy? I'll post pictures of the project shortly....we're welding up some triangulated strut braces this weekend.http://www.pelicanparts.com/support/smileys/smi14.gif

Have you checked with some of the Porsche dismantlers?

The glass window may not be such a bad thing. I've read that the glass window contributes to rear body stiffness.

Check out this thread (and there are others, use search):

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-911-technical-forum/186608-there-manual-converting-soft-window-targa.html

Sounds like the parts are made out of semi-unobtainium, so repro parts would probably be useful!

Speedo, The first thing you need to do is check to see if you have the mounts under the targa bar to support the upper hoop and handles. I think these were only present through 73 but I could be wrong. There will be a three hole impression on each side. YOu can sit in the back seat and pry back on the targa bar padding and look. A mirror can make it easier. Without these you will need to find a donor targa bar and weld them in place. It just means a lot more work.

The parts are nearly impossible to find. I inquired recently about just a set of hoops and it was over $1000. They should be easy to duplicate if you can find a template and someone willing to donate one. I posted the same thing last summer and got no response.

Quick breakdown, be prepared to spend lots of money.

Handles, hardware and hoops $12-1500
New top and boot $7-800
Installation What is your time worth? or a shop, I would estimate about 10-12 hours minimum.

Also be aware that you will loose considerable stiffness sans glass. It is a major part of a targa. That said, its not hard to make up that stiffness with less weight than the glass.

I bagged it for now. Put car away for the year. Will revisit in the spring. Looked like more of a PITA than it would be worth for me right now. How is Boulder? Had one Brother in law live on Magnolia (almost to nederland) and another on Sugerloaf for 10 years. Man were those good times!

joe 68 L