Top Frame Replacement
 

Recently there have been a few discussions about soft tops, and the plastic window vs. the glass window. On pre-'03 cars you can upgrade to a glass top but the glass window is smaller than on the '03+ cars. A few people suggested that you could change the entire top frame and get the larger '03+ glass window. Is this possible? Would it fit?

And does anyone have the dimensions of the windows, because it wouldn't be worth it for an inch or two. I know the pre-'03 glass window dimensions are 35.5"x12" and the plastic window is about 41" x 18.75" :cheers:

yes, the 03 will fit boxster's 97 and up to 04 before the 987s.... i know i swapped mine out.... six bolts... three on each side...couple screws...some help with lifting it out on one side and help with putting it back in...tightening the bolts back up and reattaching the rods and wala your done...one hour tops two for problems... look at salvage yards to buy the top with canvas and glass already installed...

You can do it no problem. But, as mentioned, you need to go the salvage route. All in, the whole setup is something like $7k new - 3500 for the frame and 3500 for the top.

So it's really just a bolt-on? No mods at all required? That seems too easy...

Would either 2003 or 2004 fit? I'm assuming the 2nd gen 2005+ won't work?

A 987 frame won't work, just a '03-'04 frame. Does anyone know the dimensions of the '03-'04 glass window? Approximate cost from a salvage yard?

Rick-
Thanks for posting this as a separate thread. It answers an earlier question I had. But dang, I think the supply and demand for salvaged '03-'04 tops just went askew. :) My top is in relatively good condition but the plastic window will most likely not make it through the summer. Decisions, decisions.

Are you maintaining the window
 

with something like Novus #1 (or 2 and 3 if it is seriously discolored).

I find that doing so twice a year seems to restore flexibility to the plastic, almost as if you were restoring the oils in the plastic, and makes the window last longer.

I maintain my window, I was just wondering what my options are when I eventually have to replace the top.

Yes, I've also been maintaining mine, although with Porsche plastic window cleaner I got with the car. However, the PO didn't always take care to do the "chop" so there is a crease on the right side just inside of the edge that looks almost to be a small hole developing. I'm just assuming that with increased use this summer, it will evenually tear.