Softtop remove/install Clarification please - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

Lapister · 03-20-2018, 02:06 PM

So, can someone who recently removed and installed a softtop with frame help me? It's loose and ready to come out and the instructions I read from a search says to move entire frame rearward a couple inches and lift out. But when I try that method the inner most frame hole comes into contact with the rollbar hoop. Im trying to install a glass window frame 03/04 to a 02 which should be a simple swap frame to frame. And I should not have to remove the clamshell.

dghii · 03-20-2018, 06:40 PM

Sounds like you're on track.
Did you remove a couple of screws on each side along with the three bolts? The screws can be hard to see down there as they are black.

If you have it all loose, get a buddy to help lift it out. You do move it back a bit and tilt the rear upward. Also, IIRC, I had the top in the down position (completely) when removing.

oldskool73 · 03-20-2018, 08:20 PM

yeah it's a 2 person job idealy, but it does just lift up with a bit of a wiggle and out.

I'd personally remove the clamshell, it only takes a minute to undo the 6 small screws holding it onto the arms, then there's a bit more room and no chance of scratching it as you do the swap.

rczap · 03-21-2018, 08:32 AM

Do you have to change the frame in order to change to a glass window top?

Brian in Tucson · 03-21-2018, 09:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rczap

Do you have to change the frame in order to change to a glass window top?

Yes, the replacement tops with glass for 02 & earlier use a smaller window and it makes it hard to work on the engine from service position.

I did my 01 with an 01 last fall. I don't recall the two screws. Moving the whole top back does help, tho. Clam shell is easy to remove, too. And be sure the linkage is unfastened.

I'm doing my 03 today, I think. Really like the idea of the glass window. It is a one person job, but get some furniture pads from Harbor freight or a couple of blankets to keep things from getting scratched up. While mine is off, I'm adjusting the linkages, mine are way out of adjustment, all of them for the top and clamshell have been replaced.