Restoring my 84 carrera targa top... Suggestions pls

[EdTarga]

Leakage through both of my windows and rear seal... Would just replacing the seals work? Or is there a more reliable and overall restoration available.
Pls advise South Florida weather is killing me

[rllevin]

Send it to Dan Petchel at carsinc-nj.com if it needs significant work. Get his number and call him about what your top needs. He's the the targa top pro.
Good luck.

[rllevin]

PS--seals are very expensive and the body seals are glued in so replacing them to see if they fix the problem without knowing is not the way to go unless you're sure they're shot. There's a factory targa top adjustment manual floating around this site--try a search for it.
I do recommend calling Dan Petchel, regardless.

[86 911 Targa]

EdTarga,

You don't indicate in your post as to when this anomaly surfaced,
if you are the original owner of the car, or any other comments
regarding the condition of the top or body seals that might assist
in providing you a possible resolution or constructive comments.

Having adjusted the top/windows on our '86 Targa,
here are some thoughts on your situation.

Assuming that the door(s) are properly adjusted (height/level):

For the windows, with the window completely closed, apply a strip
of masking tape at the outer/top of the window even with the top seal.

Then by opening the window just a few inches, you will be able to see how well
and evenly the window seats/seals on the frame.

Window adjustments, if necessary can the be made
from the inside of the door by removing the door trim.

The window should be snug against the top, but should not
lift the top.

Next, close the door, and verify the the window tucks into the
seal without any protruding glass.

On your top seals, Targa top & top body seals are probably one
of the most neglected components on Targa models.

I use 3M silicone paste with good success.
No leaks no squeaks.

If your body seals are badly deteriorated, and the
silicone paste does not resolve your issue, seal
replacement may be your only option.

As mentioned in the previous post(s), new seals
are expensive and may not be a do-it-yourself.

Before embarking on a top refurbishment, try to
perform some self analysis, purchase a Bentley manual,
as refurbishing your top may/or may not resolve the issues.

You may Email me.

Good luck,

Gerry

[redranger]

Originally Posted by rllevin

send it to dan petchel at carsinc-nj.com if it needs significant work. Get his number and call him about what your top needs. He's the the targa top pro.
Good luck.

+1

[1986911]

+2 for Dan, I just got my top back from him on Thursday. Great job, The top is perfect. Even if you don't send your top in, he can get you the parts.

[redranger]

[QUOTE=1986911;4799781]+2 for Dan, I just got my top back from him on Thursday. Great job, The top is perfect. Even if you don't send your top in, he can get you the parts.


He lives right around the corner from, really nice guy...very knowledgeable about p-cars and the targa tops.

[vulcan300]

Ed Targa,

PM me with your e-mail address and I'll hook you up with the sealing manual.

Also, if you want some constructive suggestions take some digi pics of the top on the car with the windows up. Shots of the side seals, above the window and vent windows, as well as shots of the front edge and back edge of the targa top would be very helpful.

J

[ppun]

Send it to Dan - his number is 609 298 2277 - he is a wizard at getting the tops right!!!!!

[Porsche-poor]

Another plus for Dan. I have had my top back for a few months. First time that I have had the car that it holds the water out. Just make sure if you get new side seals they look good, mine have let go of the metal and will need to be re-glued. Manufac defect not Dan's.

[biergoat]

I've got to put in a plug for Dave Brown in Boulder, Co. He restored my top last year, it looks and fits as new, top notch job.

Targa Tops By Dave Brown
(303) 499-0110
6186 Gale Dr
Boulder, CO 80303 40.0068 -105.2096

[EdTarga]

This is my first time using the forum and I must say Im impress with the kindly input of information from you all. Great advise

Thank u all.... Im glad of being part of this new community