2003 OEM glass convertible top installed on an 01 Boxster

[mark.montana]

Did you ever get around to measuring the 2003/4 OEM glass window in your soft top? I am curious as well. I would like to get a feel for how much bigger the OEM glass is than GAHH or Robbins. Thanks!

Also, any one have a good source for 2003/4 convertible tops with the 4-bow frame?

Originally Posted by Boxtaboy

I can measure for you next time I go to my garage, but I don't think the main appeal of the 03-04 window is the size of the window. I think the main appeal is that it doesn't limit engine access, with the larger glass area and OEM fit/look as secondary. As for whether or not worth doing, I think that's a function of what price you can source it for...if found at similar to price of GAHH or a few hundred higher, I think it's a no brainer. If much higher, then maybe not.

Another thing is that it is actually a lot easier to just swap the entire top frame than stripping off your old top from the frame and installing a GAHH over the old frame. That would usually take at least twice the time to do vs. just swapping out a top frame. The exception would be if you had a pre-2000 model, in which case you'd also have to modify your top relay/transmission set up.

[Boxtaboy]

Yes, the OEM glass window measures 35" by 12".

[MN 986]

I had read this post about putting the 03/04 OEM top onto an older Boxster and I was very interested because I like to drive with the top down from early Spring to late Fall and I have already had to replace a cracked plastic window. I looked every so often but I could not find a 03/04 top, especially at a reasonable price.
A few weeks back I saw an 04 top/frame assembly for sale on eBay from a low mileage car that was being converted to a track car. I bought it and it showed up last week so I had the window tinted and then I put it on this weekend. I followed the excellent directions from Boxtaboy and Schoir (thanks guys!!) and had it done in 3-4 hours without rushing. The latch hook does touch the windstop while closing so (again following Boxtaboy's tip) I will have to adjust the frame back a little, but otherwise it works perfectly.
So far all I have is a cell phone picture.
I would highly recommend this mod to anyone with a plastic window.

On a side note, I will have a 2002 black top/frame (has the headliner) with a 2 year old plastic window for sale. PM me if interested

[Bobiam]

Lucky break! What did that top and frame cost you, if you don't mind me asking.

Looks good.

[Boxtaboy]

Originally Posted by MN 986

I had read this post about putting the 03/04 OEM top onto an older Boxster and I was very interested because I like to drive with the top down from early Spring to late Fall and I have already had to replace a cracked plastic window. I looked every so often but I could not find a 03/04 top, especially at a reasonable price.
A few weeks back I saw an 04 top/frame assembly for sale on eBay from a low mileage car that was being converted to a track car. I bought it and it showed up last week so I had the window tinted and then I put it on this weekend. I followed the excellent directions from Boxtaboy and Schoir (thanks guys!!) and had it done in 3-4 hours without rushing. The latch hook does touch the windstop while closing so (again following Boxtaboy's tip) I will have to adjust the frame back a little, but otherwise it works perfectly.
So far all I have is a cell phone picture.
I would highly recommend this mod to anyone with a plastic window.

On a side note, I will have a 2002 black top/frame (has the headliner) with a 2 year old plastic window for sale. PM me if interested

Congrats! It's still my fav mod on my 01 Boxster...

[tuanle16]

wow... so i guess the 03/04 will fit. i was also told that it would ABSOLUTELY not fit. so i was debating on the aftermarket glass windows. also i had concerns of tinting the back window and it getting scatched everytime it's lowered into it's compartment. thoughts?

[MN 986]

tuanle16 -
Yes, it definitely fits! We still have about 20" of snow on the ground so it may be a while before I get to drive it, but I can't wait to raise and lower the top without worrying about the plastic window cracking.

bobiam -
I paid a little over a thousand shipped. There were a couple very small marks on the frame, but they are not very obvious after I touched them up. Other than that the top is in nearly perfect condition.

[tuanle16]

great! congrats! looks awesome.

so now i have to start looking for one too. what exactly do i need to ask for? ie..what encompasses the "complete" top so that i don't get it and realize i needed another part.

-tuan