Anyone DIY Boxster soft top replacement?

[markmalin]

I've read Wayne's article in 101 Projects, as well as some others. I've got a 2000 Boxster 2.7, the top is in fine condition but the rear plastic window is starting to crack in 2 small places (1/4" long). As I see it, my options are:

- have someone sew in a new window - $575-800
- have the top replaced - $1100
- DIY top replacement - ~$400 and a weekend of my time
- figure out a way to "glue" the 2 cracks and wait another year - $5

Has anyone ever done their own top? I know it's like a 16 hour job, but I'm up to the challenge if I know it can be done.

Other than that, general advice would be appreciated.

Thanks
Mark

[mikefocke]

Lots of folk have done it. Maurice has posted a fine piece with pictures of the process. Read it and see how you feel about your ability to do it. He also has several other articles which would explain your options.

[markmalin]

Originally Posted by mikefocke

Lots of folk have done it. Maurice has posted a fine piece with pictures of the process. Read it and see how you feel about your ability to do it. He also has several other articles which would explain your options.

That's a good writeup. Thanks.

[jklaspok]

I just recently installed a top with a glass window acquired from AutoTopsDirect | Convertible Tops | Convertible Top Headliners | Convertible Top Parts. The instructions they provide are fairly detailed and accurate. I got through it using the instructions in Waynes 101 Projects book, and the instructions provided by AutoTops Direct. The most uncertain part of the whole installation was the amount of tension required for a tight fit. Too tight and the top won't close. Too loose and it will not look very appealing. Fortunately I got it right.

If you decide to DIY, take your time and ask here if you get stuck. Also, I like the idea of using the adhesive tape. The 3M spray can get messy.

[markmalin]

jklaspok,

Thanks for the link - this is really helpful. Couple questions:

- do you find the glass window makes engine access more difficult?
- is it noticeable from the inside?
- how did you find the quality of their tops compared to original? (I assume you got the A5)?

Thanks!
Mark.

Originally Posted by jklaspok

I just recently installed a top with a glass window acquired from AutoTopsDirect | Convertible Tops | Convertible Top Headliners | Convertible Top Parts. The instructions they provide are fairly detailed and accurate. I got through it using the instructions in Waynes 101 Projects book, and the instructions provided by AutoTops Direct. The most uncertain part of the whole installation was the amount of tension required for a tight fit. Too tight and the top won't close. Too loose and it will not look very appealing. Fortunately I got it right.

If you decide to DIY, take your time and ask here if you get stuck. Also, I like the idea of using the adhesive tape. The 3M spray can get messy.

[jklaspok]

The glass window does inhibit maintenance access, but things are still reachable. I find that by moving the top more towards the closed position, I'm able to remove the covers for engine access. Not sure about your second question, but it does look nice from the inside. And the quality is superior to the factory version. I bought the top of the line for $640.00. The cloth is premium Haartz German Sonnenland A5B/DS with acoustic properties. It's definitely a heavier material.

[surfdwn]

I did my '99 top last year. I used the Pelican article a well as a video that I found on the internet as s guide.

Take your time and it will go together well. A weekend is possible, but you will use every bit of it.

My top came with marks for the centerline and where the overlaps should be. That made assembly much easier.

David Nolen

'99 Boxster
'70 911

[steveng1993]

I got one from autotops direct. Putting it on wasn't too bad really.
I think I did it working in the evening after work in like 3 nights.
I got the one with the glass window.
I much prefer the glass window compared to the plastic window.
You can actually see through the glass window. Access seems okay, I was able to replace the AOS recently without issue.

I didn't get the wrinkles out of the top above the doors. I didn't care too much when I was done since I did it my self. Had I paid someone I would have not wanted wrinkles.

One thing I didn't like with the aftermarket top was that the front of the top did not have the strip attached to the fabric, this compared to the original top which had a similar piece sewn to the fabric. This piece helps to keep the fabric tight which I assume is the source of my wrinkles. What I did was use the double sided tape to hold that strip in place, then assembled.

I am not sure if other brands have that strip actually attached to the fabric. I would look for one attached already.

The rubber moulding in the back of the window keeps falling out lately, I keep meaning to use some adhesive to hold it in. I put it back a few weeks ago hopefully pretty good.

I did break the little plastic pieces on the sides when I was removing the old ones. I ordered and used new ones, but I think I broke one of them too at some point but it doesn't give me any trouble in that spot.

[ghtaboma]

I too, have a great top, but the plastic window is shot. Can a replacement window be sewed in place without removing the top? I wonder if boat yards can do this?

[steveng1993]

When I checked my local places for replacing the window they wanted to take the top off to do it. They also wanted 800 + I think.
I bought the new top for much less.

[jbirkett]

I replaced mine last October. Followed postings from Wayne and some other posting. I can't find the link I used but have the print out (Chris in NH, 4/24//2007 on bottom of first page). I didn't go expensive but wish I had gone with the glass window. Advise: Take your time. The worst was getting the final front over the windshield. I thought I had it too tight and found I should have parked it out in the hot sun before that part. It's not 'perfect' but a darn sight better than the one that was on there.

[rfuerst911sc]

Another option is to buy a complete OEM top assembly from a 2003-2004. Buy the complete assembly which will be the fabric top, the magnesium frame and just pull the old off and bolt in the new. I have not personally done this but I believe it is just a few bolts and your done. OEM quality and fit. Plenty of wrecked cars out there and ones being converted to race cars.