I did a search but couldn't find the thread that talks about replacing the original latch bolts w/ different bolts that eliminates the wind noise. Anyone have a link to that thread?

 

it's not the bolts you worry about. For wind noise you can replace latch plates on earlier ap1's with hardtop plates if the originals are worn down, or you can install washers under the plates if you still can't resolve the windnoise issue as a last resort, but I would start with the plates first and then use the washers if you have no other options. Sorry I don't have any links to that but there is lots of info out there on windnoise issues.

 

No, there was something about putting a longer screw in the striker plates along with a plate or washer or something. I wish I made a bookmark to that page or printed it out and put it in the service manual.

 

Finally found it! That thread is HERE and a related thread on modifying the holes in the soft top latch is HERE. I'm printing them out now.

 

If you go the route of inserting washers between the striker plate and the windshield frame the oem bolts are long enough, and they are high quality bolts that also serve to align the plates in addition to keeping them tight. One to two washers are plenty and you can forego the washer that goes between the bolt and the striker plate outside surface by keeping the oem bolts. When you move away from the oem countersunk bolts you are messing with the alignment of the plates , you can keep the bolts and just go with washers on one side of the plates.

I would not advise messing with the holes in the latches, the holes and bolts assure proper alignment of the latch and they have a precise figment, once you alter the holes you will mess that up. There are specific reasons for the wind noise and they are not related to the latch bolt holes. The latches are not designed to be slid around. I would rather mess with the washers rather than alter the latch alignment.

The number one reason for wind noise is worn striker plates, replacing them with new hardtop specific plates should be the first step. If you need more tightening pressure then add one washer between the striker plate and the windshield frame and retain the oem Honda bolts. In a worse case scenario you could go with two washers between the plate and the windshield frame but that would be very rare IMO. If you need that much adjustment then there is something wrong with the latches not having enough tension and they may need replacing.

What year is your s2000? Some earlier models did not have the hardtop striker plates and they were introduced in later years, though many s2ks have experienced worn striker plates as well.

I spent dozens of hours messing with plates and latches on my car , solving my issues did not involve either of the methods listed in the two links you located they are more of band aid solutions to the real issues people have with their equipment. They can work to reduce wind noise in an less expensive way which some people prefer.

 

i replaced my softtop striker with hardtop strikers about 3 years ago, and still nothing works better for me (at reducing wind noise) than putting the top up, latching it, and then just clicking the roof button backwards for a brief moment. quick/easy/free

when you are ready to put the top back down, click it forwards, unlatch, put top down.