My Top's seen better days...

[aggiemachfive]

My convertible top leaks from the rear window and I have the bubble. There are no visible cracks or tears or mechanical malfunction of the motor; however, I can feel the separation of the top layer and the lining (I can feel the staples) and the elastic straps that run along the window are stretched. What are my chances that a stitch job will be the answer? I'll hang up and listen

 

[DropTopPony]

the rear glass is glued in i believe and the rear glass section is that entire rear area around the glass. Its a few hundred dollars to replace it. I just did my complete replacement last year.

 

[Kilgore Trout]

The top is vinyl and is good for an average of 3 years. Expect to get 5-7 max with good care.

Cobras and 40th anniversary verts got actual cloth tops.

There are different cleaners and protectors used for cloth than for vinyl so be sure you have the right stuff.

Robbins makes the best tops http://www.robbinsautotopco.com/

303 Aerospace Protectant is the best for protecting a vinyl top: http://www.303products.com/main.php?infopage=protectant

I would suggest taking your car to a good shop that specializes in tops and getting an estimate from them on the cost to repair.

 

[mode101]

303 Aerospace Protectant is the best for protecting a vinyl top: http://www.303products.com/main.php?infopage=protectant

I must be using too much of the 303 protectant, after the first rain with it on, it all runs down the back of the car when you drive, then your rear window and trunk is covered in the hazy film.

Has anyone priced a new top for a 99-04 vert? This probably isn't something you want to do yourself right?

 

[Kilgore Trout]

When you apply the 303 it does "run down" that is true. I try to wash my car soon after applying 303 to remove the excess residue. It usually only does this the first 1-2 times you drive in the rain after applying. The wipers easily clear it without smearing so it is not a safety issue.

 

[BCB00GT]

New tops average about $900 installed. I got mine done for $700.

The top itself isn't that expensive. The guy that did mine charged me @ $350 labor and I bought the top. He said I could buy it off the net cheaper that his local supplier.