Hi everyone...

I plan on installing a hardtop on my '08 come the colder months. Has anyone tried to install the top themselves?

If so - how difficult of a job is it?

Thanks

 

the panels are pretty straightfoward but tricky at times....other than that more or less bolt on and go.

 

Very easy, even if you're not that handy. Take a look at the hardtop install how-tos on here and honda-tech and they will help a lot. Lots of pictures in there.

The hardtop comes with a set of instructions as well that are quite easy to follow. Additionally, you only need basic handtools.

In a nutshell:
1. Remove panelling inside car and slide seats forward
2. Install catchers and connect the defroster wiring
3. Put panelling back in and carefully open the hardtop box
4. Use all the extra padding/packaging/cardboard that is supplied and lay it on the ground.
5. Get a buddy to lift the hardtop onto the car
6. Adjust it using the 4 bolts in the rear
7. Snap it in, and snap on the inside hardtop panels
8. Sit back and enjoy.

 

Thanks for the great replies. How long do you guys estimate it will take me to do this install?

 

I would say about 45min or so if you know what you are doing maybe a little longer. If you are gutting the softop add another 3-4 hours.

If the top need to be aligned (like mine did) It can be pretty frustrating

good luck!

 

varies based on the ammount of beer.

 

I installed mine. It wasn't that hard. Had to replace rear catchers and strikers. Probably a lot easier with newer models.

 

You need to be careful when you first latch it down, if you don't have it properly aligned, you can dent the roof when closing the latches.

The d!cks at Larry Hopkins Honda in Sunnyvale, CA refused to install a brand new top on a used S (even if I bought it from them), they told me they didn't feel like eating the cost of two tops to get the adjustments right... What does that tell you about the quality of work there???

 

Mine fit perfectly right outta the box. Attempt the adjustment only if absolutly necessary. I have a feeling that most tops for the newer cars won't require ANY adjustment.