Top closing issue

[bigeyedfish]

I recently had my the top replaced in my 2002 Boxster S with an aftermarket top from http://www.autotopsd...indows-s/98.htm

I had it installed by a local auto trimmer that came well recommended but now have an issue with the top closing.

The best way I can describe it is on the way up the cables don't track onto the right place in the plastic groove on the back of the door windows. It looks like this.

http://www.glowfoto....0/img6/glowfoto

Every time I put it up I have to get out and manually push the cable in on each side so that it looks like this.

http://www.glowfoto.com/viewimage.php?img=12-091034L&rand=2116&t=jpg&m=03&y=2010&srv=img5

I called the trimmer and he basically told me "Oh yea, they all do that" so I'm on my own. Any ideas?

Edited March 12, 2010 by bigeyedfish

[1schoir]

I recently had my the top replaced in my 2002 Boxster S with an aftermarket top from http://www.autotopsd...indows-s/98.htm

I had it installed by a local auto trimmer that came well recommended but now have an issue with the top closing.

The best way I can describe it is on the way up the cables don't track onto the right place in the plastic groove on the back of the door windows. It looks like this.

http://www.glowfoto....0/img6/glowfoto

Every time I put it up I have to get out and manually push the cable in on each side so that it looks like this.

http://www.glowfoto.com/viewimage.php?img=12-091034L&rand=2116&t=jpg&m=03&y=2010&srv=img5

I called the trimmer and he basically told me "Oh yea, they all do that" so I'm on my own. Any ideas?

Fish:

They DEFINITELY don't all do that!

Do you know if the installer used new cables or re-used the old ones?

First check to make sure that the velcro straps that fit loosely around the round tube part of the arm by the B-pillar are not torn away from the canvas, and that they are actually wrapped around and fastened around the tube.

If that is not the cause, take a look at a DIY that is on Mike Focke's website, that deals specifically with all of the possible causes for "When the Top Edge Doesn't Fall into the Guide Channels", here: http://sites.google.com/site/mikefocke2/thetop-itsmaintaince%26replacement

Regards, Maurice.

[bigeyedfish]

Thanks Maurice, that troubleshooting guide is exactly what I'm looking for.

I have also emailed the manufacturer so we'll see what they say.

[bigeyedfish]

BTW, I'm pretty sure the installer used the old cables.

[1schoir]

BTW, I'm pretty sure the installer used the old cables.

The reason I asked about the cables is that the cables don't come pre-cut from Porsche to the exact length that is needed. They have to be formed around the eyelet and crimped. If the cable is cut too long the cable will fall outside the channel.

If your old cables are stretched, you will get the same result. However, if your cables were not falling outside the guide channel with the old top, it's unlikely that is the cause. I think I included the actual overall measurement that the cable is supposed to be in the write-up.

If the installer will not stand behind his work, you should let us know who he is so that others are cautioned. :(

Let us know if you make any progress and what the fix ends up being.

Regards, Maurice.

[bigeyedfish]

Success! It was the finger spring tension. The installer put the leaf spring underneath the slider so the spring wasn't putting tension on anything.

Thanks Maurice! Now it tracks right every time. Good as new.

The installer was TR Auto Trimmer in Shreveport LA.

On another note, autotopsdirect seemed really helpful and proactive about helping me and resolving the problem and I'm really happy with the top itself. Especially for the price.

[1schoir]

Success! It was the finger spring tension. The installer put the leaf spring underneath the slider so the spring wasn't putting tension on anything.

Thanks Maurice! Now it tracks right every time. Good as new.

The installer was TR Auto Trimmer in Shreveport LA.

On another note, autotopsdirect seemed really helpful and proactive about helping me and resolving the problem and I'm really happy with the top itself. Especially for the price.

Great work! :thumbup:

Nothing like avoiding a trip to the dealer to make your day!

Thanks for posting the resolution. Good to know that autotopsdirect makes a nice top, at a good value.

Maybe you could do some troubleshooting for that installer! LOL!!!

Regards, Maurice.