Plastic Rear Window Hijinks 97-2002
 

Saw a 2001 model with a nice looking roof and like new plexiglass rear window; seller says he broke his putting the top down in cold weather. now he always uses a towel to protect the window from being cracked.

Is this necessary? I did a search and found conflicting information as to how cold is too cold to lower the top; and whether the "towel" or "chop" methods are needed.

What is the easiest way to protect the rear window from damage? Does warming the car up by driving it with the heat on make it safe to lower the roof?

The towell isn't going to prevent a crack. It will mitigate scratching the plastic when it folds.

Do some Googling on the matter. Lots of information about temperature and that plastic.

Google. :cheers:

I tore my rear window once in cooler weather (already had a small rip) when I put my top down in the Fall in Denver (cooler in the fall than most states) and now I use a Porche towel and have not had any problems; also use it in summer to avoid any potential crimping.

I always use a towel in the folds when down/open. I think/hope it makes a difference. I also give it a good cleaning before folding it up. Regarding temps, I never open/close mine below +/-75. I have the benefit of the hardtop. I typically install it early fall and keep it on through SoCal winter. I know, I know, insert ridicule winter comments here. The hardtop comes off in less than 10 minutes, if I want a fall drive.

P.S. I am originally from Buffalo, NY.

If you want the plastic window to last, don't put the top up or down below 70-75° F, if its colder use a hair dryer on it before folding it. Second, make sure to "chop" the top, especially when it is cold. The temperature affects how soft or hard the plastic is, if you don't "chop" it so it folds smoothly, it can fold with sharp angles which makes it more prone to cracking.

I also put some fleece in there but that is more to prevent scratches. My plastic window is still looking good after 22 years. :cheers:

I would want to lower the top even in colder temperature (not below 50F though I imagine); is heating up the car first by driving with the heat on and top up sufficient? Seems a bit a pain though to have to leave the cabin each time, even if that works.

I think i read in my manual not to lower the top below 17 celsius which about 64F.

I live in an climate with a wide temp swing, do chop if its chilly and not when its pretty hot.

whenever I put the top down I put a soft towel in crease after doing the chop. I also purchased a product that is supposed to keep the plastic window pliable. I usually dont put top down in the cold unless I am going to put the HT on it. I usually dont drive it much after NOV. I live in RI.

Stupid question, but I've always been a bit unsure for you folks that put the towel in after the chop. Do you put it on the outside or the inside? Also how thick is too thick of a towel? I know this is probably ridiculous, but honestly it has been something I'm never 100% sure I get.... Many thanks for those who don't think I'm extremely daft right now....

OK. It's after 530A, so I'm going to take a stab at this.

Please share how you would use/affix the towel from the inside. Thank you.

You're welcome. :dance:

You can also use a foam noodle used in the swimming pool to float on to reduce the crease. Wrap it in a towel to keep the foam noodle material from abrading the plastic window.

THIS !!!

What the heck is so hard about adhering to this advice which has been around FOREVER ?!

Just sayin'...........

TO