Window Tear

[softroop]

2002 Box. A few days ago I noticed a tear in my plastic rear window. It's about 1/3 inch wide, and in the middle. It's barely noticeable (to others besides myself). I can't think of how it could have "accidently" occured. The upholstery shop rep recommended I replace the entire top. I can always just claim it with my insurance, but I'd like to know if there are any options besides spending $1200 for a new top, or $500 to get a new plastic window sewn in. Can a plastic window tear be repaired?

[vath2001]

Originally Posted by softroop

2002 Box. A few days ago I noticed a tear in my plastic rear window. It's about 1/3 inch wide, and in the middle. It's barely noticeable (to others besides myself). I can't think of how it could have "accidently" occured. The upholstery shop rep recommended I replace the entire top. I can always just claim it with my insurance, but I'd like to know if there are any options besides spending $1200 for a new top, or $500 to get a new plastic window sewn in. Can a plastic window tear be repaired?

To make it simple... no.
Its already torn/ripped, so you can try glueing in a patch... nothing to lose now.
Please report back what you end up doing. I would like to know if patching works and what glue you might use.

[Rick V]

I just went through this. The way I figured it, even if I replaced the window the remaining top is still X number of years old. Sure it was in great shape but it is cloth and it will tear simply from age and the elements. IMP Just bite the bullet and replace the entire top. That is the way I went, although it cost me a fortune. I had a Porsche top installed. $2,200 but the car is happy

[schoir]

Originally Posted by softroop

2002 Box. A few days ago I noticed a tear in my plastic rear window. It's about 1/3 inch wide, and in the middle. It's barely noticeable (to others besides myself). I can't think of how it could have "accidently" occured. The upholstery shop rep recommended I replace the entire top. I can always just claim it with my insurance, but I'd like to know if there are any options besides spending $1200 for a new top, or $500 to get a new plastic window sewn in. Can a plastic window tear be repaired?

The tear cannot be repaired without a cosmetic issue.

There are some write-ups that discuss your options here: http://mike.focke.googlepages.com/thetop-itsmaintaince%26replacement

Regards, Maurice.

[AUDIOGUY]

Claimed mine with the insurance company. Looked like a "cut" if you know what I mean. Comprehensive covered an entire new top. I replaced it with the GAHH and am very happy. I paid 1500.00 installed with the heated back glass.

Best of luck!