Re: Convertible top

[Hal Taylor <taylor@domain.elided>]

Fred,

You might talk to a shop about replacing the window.  I'm not sure, but
I believe that this is at least not unheard of.  However, if you're
thinking about installing the top yourself, you may find that having the
window replaced approaches the cost of a new Caribou top.  Just a guess;
check for yourself.

I bought a Caribou top last summer.  I'm reasonably pleased with it.
However, I think that MUCH of the experience with a new top depends on
the quality of the installation.  Mine was decent, but not perfect it (I
had done professionally).  I believe there are people on the list who've
done it themselves; hopefully some of them will chime in.  I think I
remember people saying that you should expect it to take a weekend the
first time to do it properly, and that it should be done in good
weather.

Hal

Fred Sacks wrote:

> Well, it's just lovely here in the Philadelphia area.  Went outside
> today, 0 degrees, -15 wind chill.  I accidently hit the rear window
> with my brief case,  just a light touch really,  and the rear window
> cracked.  A nice "Y" pattern on the drivers side.
>
> The window wasn't in great shape to begin with as the PO must have
> put his dog on the back shelf, as the window in looked like it was
> scratched at pretty often.  I guess it was just a matter of time.
>
> The details:
>
> 89 Graduate (vynal top) in otherwise perfect condition. 30k miles
>
> 1) Can the window alone be replaced, as the rest of the top is in
> pretty good condition.
>
> 2) I've never replaced a top, and I know that there have been other
> threads on this, but is it doable in the garage once the weather
> changes.  (The taped window will have to do for now.) I do have the
> IAP manual and it looks time consuming, but not that difficult.
>
> 3) I don't want to start a debate, but there is quite a bit of
> difference in price between the IAP and Carribou prices.  I'd be
> interested in knowing the experiences of those of you out there that
> have used either these suppliers or any other.  While I never skimp
> in any way when it comes to my baby, ei: synthetic oil changes every
> 3K miles...Panasport wheels etc., I don't want to waste $ either.
>
> Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
>
> Fred Sacks
> 89 Graduate
> 88 Milano Verde- Hit in rear end and for sale

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