i read a bunch that putting on hard top saves weight because the HT is like 20 pounds less than the soft top system. Maybe im misinformed but if the HT is put on with the ST doesnt that just make your car 50 pounds heavier?

 

They're talking about completely removing the soft-top assembly and replacing it with a hardtop. You'll get some weight savings and improved aerodynamics.

 

yes it does

 

Hardly anyone completely removes their soft-top or more correctly their soft-top w/ frame assembly (~80 lbs) and replaces it with the 44 pound aluminum HT because they dont' want to do away entirely with be able to put their top down. Owners with hardtops simply install the HT over their folded down ST which when done obviously adds 44 lbs to your car. As mentioned earlier, the weight savings only come if you entirely remove the ST w/ frame assembly when installing the HT.

An interesting alternative for someone with a HT and no ST would be enjoy the HT when it's on the car with the ~40 pound weight savings and then if you do feel like having a convertible again, simply take off the top and put your tonneau boot cover and cruise around with the ~80 pound weight savings. Obviously the drawbacks are you now have a permanent convertible until you get back to your garage so if it rains while you're out then you're screwed. Also, if you park your car then this also poses a risk.

 

The Entire softtop assembly is 110--120(some say even more) pounds minus 50(Mugen FG Hofttop). So a 60-70Plus pounds weight saving in IMO is Huge. The Aero benifit is big also. When/if I ever do it, it also now leaves a GREAT place to mount a nice set of 3 way components.
I agree thought, If you want to cruise in the car as a convertible, you just must hope it doesnt rain!

 

is it difficult to completely remove softop? for HT install?

 

Not at all, it's easier to remove the soft-top w/ frame than it is the softop from the frame which involves undoing those rivets. There are approximately ten bolts which secure the soft-top w/ frame to the chassis. The bolts (nuts) which cause even the most difficult time are simply located behind the thin small cover above the rear tray all the way in the back. This piece is held on by 3 simple clips.

 

ic thx! soon i will become DIY s2k man!