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Registered
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Alameda, CA, USA
Posts: 257
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Drove the Targa to work today expecting to get some top off driving with the good weather. Went to take the top off with the key and the left latch(?) split in two right where the two gaps are for the key/handle. Hoping I can get the top off with a large flathead screwdriver or similar device. Suggestions?
Is this the replacement from Pelican? Targa Top Latch, 911 (1974-85) C-565-031-41 $295.00. Sounds pricey, especially since I should get two. I also will need a new key as mine is very worn. Any other good sources such as Parts Heaven, EASY, or a Pelicanhead? Thanks
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Tim '81 Porsche 911SC Targa '00 Audi A6 4.2 '99 Ellsworth Truth '02 Taylor with new Tru Temper S3 and carbon fiber! |
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Registered
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Northern CA
Posts: 595
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Tim,
BTDT and as I recall, I ended up using a coat hanger to finesse the top free. It was a hassle as I remember. Before you shell out for a new latch, though, Stoddard will rebuild yours for you. I think it cost me $80 a year ago to have it done. Alternatively, check PartsHeaven, GPR or even Ein Malig for used latches. The new price anywhere is obscene IMHO.
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Mark '88 Carrera GPW Sunroof Coupe '82 SC Targa (RIP) |
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Registered
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Alameda, CA, USA
Posts: 257
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Mark,
So you got used latches and shipped the whole top off to Stoddard in OH? I was thinking (and hoping) used latches would be pretty easy to install.
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Tim '81 Porsche 911SC Targa '00 Audi A6 4.2 '99 Ellsworth Truth '02 Taylor with new Tru Temper S3 and carbon fiber! |
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Crotchety Old Bastard
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A large flathead screwdriver will work for now.
My last 911 was a Targa, both latches were worn out. I used a screwdriver for over a year before fixing the latches. You can fix the latch yourself. Take it apart and you will see the small part that is broken. Take this part to a machine shop and have them make two for you. Cost me all of $20 each. For the handle, simply drive out the bent crossbar and press in a new metal rod of the same diameter. Cut, sand and you are done. This really is an easy fix. Try it before spending any money.
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RarlyL8 Motorsports / M&K Exhaust - 911/930 Exhaust Systems, Turbos, TiAL, CIS Mods/Rebuilds '78 911SC Widebody, 930 engine, 915 Tranny, K27, SC Cams, RL8 Headers & GT3 Muffler. 350whp @ 0.75bar Brian B. (256)536-9977 Service@MKExhaust Brian@RarlyL8 |
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Registered
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Northern CA
Posts: 595
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Tim,
No need to send the whole top in - you can get at the latch if you remove the trim piece on the top once you've released it from the car. Rarly has a point - you may be able to fix it yourself and even if not, Stoddard will be able to so it shouldn't really set you back to try. I just left mine to the pros and gladly paid the 1/3 or less of the price for a new latch. Good luck
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Mark '88 Carrera GPW Sunroof Coupe '82 SC Targa (RIP) |
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