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Looking to replace my 15 year old soft top

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Old 09-08-2017, 06:42 AM
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Default Looking to replace my 15 year old soft top

Hello all,

I'm looking to replace my soft top as I'm having leaking issues.

Which top is recommended? Robbins top, OEM, others?

I am going to have a professional do that installation.

Thanks
Old 09-08-2017, 09:05 AM
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There are many threads on this. I am having mine replaced as well due to wear issues. Originally I was going to go with a Robbins top but the shop I chose prefers to use GAHH. The shop is one of the best in the state and I spoke to the owner about the brand. He much prefers GAHH based on his experience with the other makes of replacement tops.
Old 09-08-2017, 10:06 AM
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May I ask in which state this top installer is located?
Old 09-08-2017, 10:41 AM
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Robbins is probably the most popular. I'd go with that over the OEM vinyl.
Old 09-08-2017, 12:26 PM
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Originally Posted by AZS2KDancer
May I ask in which state this top installer is located?
Seattle, Washington. The shop is called Convertibles Only.
Old 09-08-2017, 03:13 PM
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How much for parts and labor? Im looking to switch mine out too.
2005 here.
Old 09-09-2017, 10:01 AM
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Originally Posted by A_SpeC
How much for parts and labor? Im looking to switch mine out too.
2005 here.
They charge $2045 plus tax for the replacement using a GAHH cloth top. If you go with a vinyl one it is a little cheaper.
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Old 09-13-2017, 10:21 AM
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Originally Posted by DangerZone9K
Hello all,

I'm looking to replace my soft top as I'm having leaking issues.

Which top is recommended? Robbins top, OEM, others?

I am going to have a professional do that installation.

Thanks

I've replaced about 150 tops. OEM material will be identical to all of the aftermarket vinyl tops unless you choose to purchase a cloth top (usually labeled as stayfast cloth). Almost all manufacturers (except OEM) use Haartz brand material on both vinyl and cloth.

OEM will have the most exact fit and finish but will be the most expensive. Around ($1200)
Robbins is the aftermarket favorite and has a good warranty. The rear glass differs slightly as to how it is attached from the OEM setup but quality is good. Fit is usually a bit tight and can be difficult to install if it's cold.
EZ-On is probably the second most purchased because of the price savings. Quality of construction is on par with Robbins, but there is some variability which leads to tight fitting sometimes. Also, the plastic trim is not punched cleanly so some more prep work is needed prior to install.
Sierra (which also provides tops to GAHH) is my favorite. They are constructed closer to the OEM style than the rest of the tops with how the front attaches which makes for a better fit. They also have less tight fit issues.
There are some vendors that sell on eBay for really low prices and don't have brands associated with them. I've seen these fall apart, stay away from non-brand names.

Hope that helps
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Old 09-13-2017, 01:31 PM
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I've had two top replacements on the two S2000s I have owned. I had a dealer replace the top with an OEM top. That cost me slightly over 2,000 bucks. The second S I replaced the top with a Robbins vinyl top I got in a group buy here for around 600 bucks. An installer from the club put it in for around 500 bucks. At first the top was a little tight but it has stretched out now. I'm very satisfied. Looks and works every bit as good as an OEM top. And I got to keep a grand in my pocket.
Old 09-15-2017, 06:28 AM
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Thanks all! I will be needing a new top next spring I think. I have a couple tiny tears which I've repaired but it's only a matter of time until they really open up.


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