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Top replacement - dealer vs. convertible specialist?

01BoxterS
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01BoxterS Member

01BoxterS

Posted
Posted

The rear window on my 2001 S has separated from the canvas, and the tan top is dingy and past its prime. I no longer have a garage, so I am forced to outsource it. I would appreciate some informed opinions.

 

I'm looking at a GAAH A5 Acoustic glass window top. The dealer is saying $2,700-$3k installed. A reputable convertible/interior specialist is coming in at $2,200. The dealer talked about needing to buy additional sound insulation, clips and etc., which is either building in additional profit, or it may be totally justified because they have experience and might provide additional quality. I don't have an excess of cash for a 18 y/o car so I'm soliciting experienced opinions:

 

  • Assuming the local top specialist is truly skilled at their game, should I expect that they can handle this, along with connecting the heating element?  I doubt they have done many A5 Acoustic glass retrofits, whereas the dealer has likely done a few.
  • If I go with the local specialists, are there some unique things I need to specify they order/replace/pay attention to?
  • Should I give more weight to (a) Porsche dealer that only occasionally does a top or (b) the people who do tops all the time, but just not Porsches?  

 

All informed opinions are welcome. 

Thanks!

  • 2 weeks later...
Philip Adler Member

Philip Adler

Posted
Posted
Are you sure the dealer does the tops and doesn't outsource the job to the top shop?
 
Where do you live?
 
You can read about how complex a job it is

6554b6be8c0d829a8bf63ae0c82cf121_link.png installingarobbinstop - mikefocke2

SITES.GOOGLE.COM  even if the brand is different. 
 
And
Figure1-large.jpg

6554b6be8c0d829a8bf63ae0c82cf121_link.png replacingthetop-adiy - mikefocke2

SITES.GOOGLE.COM  
 
 
 
I just finished installing a Robbins top 2 weeks ago. Off and only took me about a week ( I work ), was at times frustrating, did include a lot of expletives, and you wish you had nimble and thin fingers! But the glass window does make a big difference, it looks great, people can't believe I did it myself, and I saved a lot of $$!

Sent from my VS987 using Tapatalk

01BoxterS Member

01BoxterS

Posted
  • Author
Posted (edited)

Thank you. I now live in a historic city neighborhood without a decent workspace, so it looks like the dealer is getting my $$ for a GAHH top. But I'm envious of the experience , lots of cursing and the ultimate triumph. I'll just have to find other things to curse about.

Edited by 01BoxterS

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