2003 Convertible Top
 

I have a friend with an '03 and the top is exhibiting some problems. I've repaired mine in the past, but before I look at the '03 - is is the same mechanism as an '02? Or is it hydraulic?

Not sure what's happening, but on the way down at the last 3 or 4 inches, it kinda slams down. Not smooth. Also, she showed me two areas on both sides of the car where the fabric appears to be almost worn through.

TIA

I put an 04 top and frame on my 2000 Boxster. The mechanism is the same for a 2000 and 2004, so I'm sure it is the same for a 2002 and 2003.

I have seen several 03 and 04 tops that are developing a wear spot in the top in the areas just behind the windows. It appears that the top mechanism is "hanging up" on this area during the opening and closing process. One of the folks with the problem speculated that as time goes on and the number of open/close cycles accumulate that the top fabric loses its ability to slide past the frame and you start to get a wear spot.

I have not seen the "slam" phenomenon that you are observing, but I have noted that over time my clamshell is no longer closing all the way when the top is open and there is a 1/4" to 1/2" gap between the clamshell and the body.

My first B was a 2000 model S, now a salvage car, just the car. I just purchased a 2003 model with Tiptronic, and now I have noticed that the top cover does not always seat flush. I did notice wear spots on the top but didn't really comprehend (sp).
I'll be following this thread.....

I'll have to wait until I see the car again, I only gave it a cursory look.

My policy is that when the car comes out in the spring, I put the top down and I leave it down and don't drive it on rainy days. It only goes up if I get caught in a shower, so the mechanism doesn't really get any exercise at all.

Take a look at this thread: http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/47524-wrinkles-top-fabric.html

Since the time I started that thread, the top has developed a small hole where the frame contacts the fabric.