2001 Boxster rear window cracked

[Bob Hancock]

The plastic rear window on my 2001 Boxster has developed a crack that is growing. Are there any options other than a new top? Will the top with a glass rear window fit my car? Is the installation a project that the nominal owner wrench can do?
The car lives in the garage and is driven only on sunny days, so the problem isn't urgent, but it needs to be fixed.
Comments? Suggestions?

[jluetjen]

Yes, you can order a roof with a glass rear window from our host. I would recommend it since it will end the issues the the plastic rear window forever. I replaced the roof on my '02 Boxster myself, but budget a full weekend or 2 for doing it. It's a little finicky, but the instructions in Wayne's book, and the expanded set of pictures on the Pelican site are definitely useful. The only thing that is not covered real clearly in the instructions is described here.

[BYprodriver]

Originally Posted by Bob Hancock

The plastic rear window on my 2001 Boxster has developed a crack that is growing. Are there any options other than a new top? Will the top with a glass rear window fit my car? Is the installation a project that the nominal owner wrench can do?
The car lives in the garage and is driven only on sunny days, so the problem isn't urgent, but it needs to be fixed.
Comments? Suggestions?

My 2000 is doing the same thing. I used opticly clear "Gorilla" tape, it holds great!

[mikefocke]

Take a look here too. https://sites.google.com/site/mikefocke2/thetop-itsmaintaince%26replacement

[Bob Hancock]

Excellent info guys. Thanks.

[racer]

My recollection is that the AFTERMARKET glass tops have a smaller window than the Factory glass window. Porsche likely modified the bows to allow the larger glass window.

Or, just put on another one with a plastic window. If this one has lasted 19 years, no reason the next one cant either.

[Bob Hancock]

The glass windows are smaller evidently as they cannot bend when open. I've found a reputable installer who can install a new top with plastic window for $1575 and one with the glass for $1875. This is roughly $200 less than a local installer who has seen Boxsters but not often.
So the question is, for $300 is the glass with heating element attached, worth it? If it's only money then I'd just go for the glass, but Christmas and tax season is coming up so I'm thinking on that.
Thanks for your interest and comments.

[racer]

What brand top? Based on this site, that means about $1100 for install or was the price quoted only for install? Not sure if that's a good price or not. Depending on your own abilities, time and maybe a second set of hands to help, you might try it yourself (especially if you were to just choose a plastic windowed top)

https://gahh.com/convertible-tops/car-tops?vehicle_make=244

[mikefocke]

Gorilla Glue clear tape for now. $5 at Walmart.

[Bob Hancock]

I forgot to mention that he will remove my top and sew in a new plastic for $910.00. So that puts his labor right at $875 (my guess). As far as new tops, he did not specify a brand but said his tops looked OEM canvas, a request that I specified. So not necessarily made i Germany but a top that I wouldn't be able to tell apart. And new tops come with a 6 year warranty.
Based upon what an installer in north Georgia asked, the guy nearer Atlanta was cheaper by about $200 for new tops.
With all these great suggestions I have data to make a decision. Which will have to wait until after Christmas.
mikefocke. what does this clear Gorilla Glue look like when installed? I don't ever drive this car in the rain (on purpose that is) so not worried about water in the car. Just wondering if it will help temporarily conceal the crack or show it up?
Happy Thanksgiving to all.
Bob

[mikefocke]

It is clear so probably even clearer than an older window. Someone else recommended it.

[Bob Hancock]

Just had the thought that the tape can keep the crack from growing which might be useful until I can get it all replaced. Gotta go get some of that.

[BYprodriver]

Originally Posted by racer

My recollection is that the AFTERMARKET glass tops have a smaller window than the Factory glass window. Porsche likely modified the bows to allow the larger glass window.

Or, just put on another one with a plastic window. If this one has lasted 19 years, no reason the next one cant either.

I don't think you will find a new OE plastic window top, and anything else will reduce access to the engine from the top side.

[Bob Hancock]

OBTW the installer near Atlanta can do it all in one day which means I can drive down the 121 miles, get there when they open at 0900, go to lunch or whatever, and drive the car home with a new top. Everyone else I talked to said it takes two-three days. In this case I guess familiarity breeds expertise.