Best way to store a hardtop - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

coonster · 02-03-2008, 09:02 AM

Just bought a 2000 Boxster last month that came with a hardtop. I removed it thanks to Schwank directions. I would like some feedback if it is better to store the hardtop with a hoist, cart or wall mount. If you could include any information as to cost and the best place to buy it would be appreciated.
Thanks

rick3000 · 02-03-2008, 09:09 AM

I would avoid wall or hoist storage. From what I have read, they tend to ruin the seals around the edges of the top. My top came with a cart rack, and it is great. It folds up, and doesn't damage the top in anyway. You can make your own if you want to save some cash.

http://www.stormaster.com/Hardtop/

Grizzly · 02-03-2008, 09:10 AM

I like this way. I like it because the top is off the floor and out of the way. It's sold by Porsche. I'd like to tell you the retail price, but I don't know. I got this one off of ebay for $150.

KevinH1990 · 02-03-2008, 01:42 PM

I have a hoist. The support brackets on mine don't touch the seals.

Here's a link to the web site for eztop - the brand I have: http://www.eztop.com/

I have a very crowded garage and the advantages of the hoist from my perspective are:

1. It is up out of the way where no one will hit it with a bicycle or other implement of destruction.
2. When it comes time to install or remove the top, I can do it myself or with the help of my spouse.

The disadvantages of the hoist are:

1. It is probably the most expensive option, and
2. It is a bit of a job to install.

Here's a link to a picture of my hoist in use: http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n161/KevinH1990/IMG_1768.jpg

I recently bought a hard top cover like Grizzly's so it doesn't get dusty in storage anymore.

Grizzly · 02-03-2008, 02:08 PM

As you can probably see, my wall mount doesn't touch the seals either. It hangs from the top's mounting points.

Thumper · 02-04-2008, 08:06 AM

I have the wall mount like Grizzly's. Keeps it up out of the way and turns it into garage art when you're not using it. I got my wall rack off of eBay as well. I believe that I paid $80 for it. I can also put it up and take it down without any assistance, but I do like to have someone help me put it on the car so I don't have an accident.

70Sixter · 02-04-2008, 12:22 PM

I also have the Grizz and Thumper set-up. No room for the cart in my garage, but it is good if you have room. And good point about the garage art!

As far as stowage on a hoist - I have been told that the very light top can deform while suspended. Don't know for certain. But if I add hoist it will be for on/off and very short term temp storage.