Convertible top window replacement experience - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

nieuwhzn · 03-21-2011, 02:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Spinnaker

According to the local boating store, this is the stuff to use on seams.
http://www.amazon.com/Gear-Aid-Seam-Grip-Sealer/dp/B003TP2NT4/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=sporting-goods&qid=1300739198&sr=8-3
Haven't tried it, so if anyone has some experience with it, let us know.

Looks good, thanks!
I only wonder how difficult it will be to remove if again another window needs to be put in?
This stuff seems also to be a good adhesive, what about using it to glue the new window to the canvas first and let it cure before starting to stitch? From what I read the main problem with stitching in a new window is to get a nice taut window without wrinkles. Hm, maybe that's less of an issue with 40 gauge vinyl.

landrovered · 03-22-2011, 05:17 AM

That is what I did with the glue gun, used it to hold the window in for stitching, a more flexible adhesive would be better than hot glue.

The secret to getting the window taught is not having it all the way open (stretched) when you lay it out and sew it. Have the canvas a little bit loose and then when it is mounted it will be nice and tight.

The 40 gauge material loosened up a surprising amount. If your stitch quality is good then you will want it a bit hard to close because it will relax over time. I know with Land Rovers, you have to use a hair dryer on the top to close it the first time.

landrovered · 03-23-2011, 08:21 AM

I snapped a finished photo for you guys to see.

I would not claim that is is perfect but it is certainly better than a cracked yellow window that the rain goes right through.

Cheers!

nieuwhzn · 03-23-2011, 08:50 AM

Looks great to me, congrats with your work!
Waiting for the weather here to get a bit better before attempting this myself, low temperatures and rain/snow/sleet every other couple of days. I don't care about cracking my window any further anymore, lower the top anyway, heater on full blast and enjoying the ride.

Btw, did your cat already figure out that the canvas top is a nice scratching post?

landrovered · 03-23-2011, 08:58 AM

We have four cats and they LOVE the soft tops on my wifes and my Boxsters. I bought a $20 car cover from Walmart that does an amazing job of keeping the cat hair off of the top. They don't seem to sharpen their claws as much with it on there. I guess because it is loose.