[Jeph]

Plastic windows crack. It's happened to a lot of us. Just like light bulbs burning out -even if being operated in appropriate conditions, it happens. With that said, I think it would be a waste of your time to (try to) talk Porsche or a dealership.

Insurance

I consider myself one of the lucky ones. My insurance covered it (and in my case, it was the insurance company's decision on whether a new plastic window needed to be stitched in or the entire top replaced.) The scenario you described is different from mine in that I got out of my car in the midst of lowering the top and did "the chop." Had I not done that, it would have been considered a mechanical problem, thus not covered. If your brother had been driving and threw a rod or something, insurance wouldn't even consider covering that because it's a mechanical problem -a problem occurring during normal operation.

Give your insurance company a call. You say they're wonderful, they may be able to work with you.

Getting it fixed

New Plastic Window - The most affordable fix is replacing the plastic window. I've received quotes ranging from $500 to $800 in my neck of the woods. This will depend on the condition of the top's stitching around the window. (I've been told that it requires a special machine that melts and bonds.)

New Glass Top - A glass window requires an entirely new top. I've never explored that option because I find the window looks disproportionately small.

New Top - If the plastic can't be replaced, a new top you shall need. I've received quotes from $1650 (installed) from independent shops to the ballpark of $3k from dealerships.

Hardtop - This was the route I went. My hardtop cost $2145 shipped from the dealership (Brandywine in PA). I keep my hardtop on most of the time for the following reasons:

1. Ironically, I'm not really a convertible guy (girls dig it though). I get sunburned fairly quickly (everyone loves a redhead).
2. Winter and summer both have temperatures not conducive for convertible cruising where I live.
3. I love the way it looks. Kinda seems like a whole different car to me.

Health

Your health is more important any piece of plastic -it's more important than any Porsche. You know that. Don't sweat the car. If it's not in the cards to fix the top right now, so be it. Can I assume that since you've had it stored for 3 months that you have another vehicle to drive? The Boxster is still drivable and still looks great with the top down.

I hope this information helps you out bryant. If you have any other questions, post away or feel free to PM me.