Before installing an OEM hardtop on an '03 with glass rear window, I wondered if any listers had experience with any long term adverse effect of leaving the soft top folded for an extended period of time?

Bob Moran

 

Personally I don't think so barring any adverse rubbing with the top folded. I also think that the more the top is operated and the more the top is exposed to the elements , the more wear you will experience.

 

the more wear i've found is repeated operation, up/down daily, because for me i drive to work top down, put it up for parking, and top down back home (stays top down in the garage). that is two open/closes per day. that's where the wear marks and tears come from. being hidden under the hard top is going to protect it against uv rays also.

 

I've experienced the soft top having a hard time closing (putting it back up) after it was down for months. I had to pull it forward to latch it back into place.

Keith

 

Thanks for all of your responses. They're very helpful.

Bob Moran

 

Hi Bob

The wear that occurs causing holes to the side of the roof just above head level is due to the elbow joint on the frame wearing through the roof when it is down. When the hardtop is on this could be rubbing all the time.

Do the simple mod of wrapping the elbows and you will stop this happening.
I used some black bass box cloth, you can also use those neoprene wraps designed to protect BMX bike forks

 

My top is an aftermarket canvas one, and I am going to clean and treat mine today before it takes its long winter nap below the hardtop. I have had no problems so far.

 

that's the same tear i have...

 

top down all time = extra wear? never thought about that

 

I have the same tare. I also take top down as often as possible. luckily Honda is replacing it.