Gonna tackle a top replacement myself - parts question

[stateofidleness]

Hey all! So a long time ago my aftermarket top with glass window failed on me.. literally the glass fell out due to adhesive failing... anyway... top mfg sent me an "upgraded" one (with that design flaw fixed) under warranty and I've decided to try to tackle it myself after getting sticker shock of what some folks are charging for this at indy shops. (I had it done on the "failed" top at an Indy and they charged me $800 about 10 years ago. newest quotes were over $2k!)


So anyway.. familiarizing myself with the replacement steps via Pelican and other sites, and was wondering if anyone had any parts they recommend replacing for sure while tearing the top stuff apart. Is there anything I should order in advance so I'm not waiting on parts once I get half way through?


Any other tips and tricks you wish you had known for those that have crossed this bridge?

[stateofidleness]

no replies has me second guessing my thoughts on DIY'ing this lol

[dghii]

I'll bite as I just saw your post.....
I've done a couple of Boxster tops along with a couple 350Z tops.

There are a few parts on each side of the top you may want to order....can't remember the names of the parts and yours may be fine. They are just plastic pieces so no biggie if yours are ok
The whole process wasn't difficult at all. Be careful removing the rear weatherstripping...don't pull too hard as it is easy to tear and expensive to replace. Keep track of any microswitch connections (depends on year).
Start at the front and work toward the rear. Bag your parts (there aren't really that many when you pass the front bow).
The new top will fit fine and take very little adjusting. Get it set, latch it and put it in the sun for a few days!

First top took me about 4-5 hours to remove and same to put on new top. Second time around was about an hour to remove and 2 to install. If I can do it, anyone can!