How Do You Put A Top On A Convertible?

There’s one crucial thing to keep in mind: As much as you may feel tempted to try some DIY repairs or installation, replacing a convertible top can be a complicated task. If it is not performed correctly, you can cause a fatal leak, damage to the interior, or even catastrophic failure.

Can you replace a convertible top by yourself?

Unless you’re very handy around the garage, we would recommend getting your car’s soft top replaced by a professional as the process is typically very labor-intensive. If you miss a step in the process or lose any of the parts, then it could have a great effect on the finished product.

How long does it take to put on a convertible top?

7-8 hours
Replacing a convertible top is not overly complicated, but it isn’t easy either. It takes a professional 7-8 hours to correctly install and align a top, and that isn’t taking into consideration the possible need for the restoration or maintenance of the top frame.

Why won’t my convertible top go up?

If a convertible top simply doesn’t go up or down when you engage the switch, the cause may be a bad fuse, lift cylinder, or relay. When a convertible top gets stuck in the process, it is most likely caused by a lift cylinder or a broken cable.

How much does it cost to turn a convertible into a hardtop?

In general, convertible conversions cost anywhere from $2,000 to $50,000. Here are some of the biggest price-determining factors: The car’s price.

What is the life expectancy of a convertible top?

A properly maintained convertible top lasts an average of 5-7 years.

How often does a convertible top need to be replaced?

The average life of a convertible top is about ten years, depending on its exposure to the elements and usage. Vinyl tops age differently than cloth tops.

Are convertible tops covered by insurance?

If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance might pay for the top. Because the damage was caused by an act of God, or weather, and not by normal wear and tear, your car insurance will probably pay for repairs.

How much does it cost to put a vinyl top on a car?

The average car requires roughly 250 square feet of vinyl to cover its entire surface. With this in mind, the standard DIY car wrap will run you approximately $500-$750 in vinyl costs. These prices will vary depending on the vinyl brand, the vinyl retailer, and the color and design of the wrap.

Does rain damage a convertible top?

Moisture from humidity, rain, sleet, or snow can cause mold and mildew and also crack or peel the soft convertible top.

Should a convertible be stored with the top up or down?

Leave the top up, but crack the windows to promote ventilation and prevent moisture from building up in your interior. Storing your convertible with the top down is a bad idea. Your convertible top may stretch, crack, or rip when you put it up after a very long period of time folded.

How fast do you have to drive to stay dry in a convertible?

Cars like the Mazda Miata that have a steeper windshield can generate enough turbulence to deflect the rain at lower speeds, around 45 miles per hour or so. On the other hand, sleeker cars with windshields that are laid down nearly flat, like the Ferrari Portofino, have to go faster to achieve the same result.

What kind of glue do you use on a convertible top?

Loctite Super Glue Brush On Liquid, 0.18 oz, 1, Tube.

Can I fix my convertible top?

To fix your ripped convertible top, you’ll need to replace the material with a new cloth and use the glue or adhesive along with upholstery thread and Scotch guard. Using marine canvas is recommended as it has a more textured surface that gives it an attractive appearance compared to the standard smooth fabric.

What is the best thing to put on a convertible top?

To protect your convertible top, once clean, a vinyl protectant should be utilized to help preserve the color and texture and help prevent cracks and fading. Protectants are used not only to prevent discoloration, but they also protect the top from the sun’s harmful UV rays and resist dirt and grease.

Can a soft top convertible be converted to hard top?

Unlike all other types of convertibles, Jeeps are capable of turning from a soft top to a hardtop and back again, all through a simple process. Because of this, it’s one of the only 4x4s that’s entirely suitable for both inclement weather and sunny days.

What’s better hardtop or soft top?

Durability: Hardtops are clearly the more durable option. They’re solid and can withstand significant damage that would normally tear through a soft top. That means they’ll last longer overall, so you won’t have to deal with as much maintenance.

Which is better hard or soft top convertible?

Because a hardtop features more mechanical and electrical components, the price will often be higher, depending on the model. Also, when it’s time to replace or repair your top, the soft top could save you money, with potentially cheaper parts and fewer things that can go wrong.

Can you take a convertible top through a carwash?

Most convertibles are safe for automated car washes, according to the car wash industry. Millions of convertibles are washed successfully every day, and they are designed to do so without causing damage to the vehicle.

Is it OK to leave a convertible outside?

Although a garage is ideal, convertibles can also be stored outside. In this case, you need to really consider a water-resistant yet breathable cover, one that is thicker for cars parked outside and a proper, snug fit.