I"ve read that having the top folded down for a long time (e.g. if you have a hard top, you would have the top folded down for a long time), will be bad for the top.

However, many people i talk to say it doesn't matter..

What do you guys think?

http://www.sacbee.com/content/business/sto...-12469500c.html

 

It doesn't matter, its my second season with the HT and after the first I can't see why it would be bad. I've had no issues with it.

 

the only time my top is up is to detail the car...
(mine lives under the boot)
the only thing you need to do is to shin etsu the seals every once in a while-
over 5 years old and it works and looks like new-

 

I didn't have any problems after the winters of 02 and 03 and don't anticipate any this winter either.

 

I have my hardtop on the car for about 6 months every year. This is the 5th winter now. My soft top is fine. Just don't move it till it's warmed up.

 

For those of you that keep the PLASTIC window folded down for extended periods of time, do you recommend/use a roof well mat and/or roll-up?

 

Absolutely. I also have static cling tint installed on the outside. This adds quite a bit of thickness and "support" for the plastic window, making it much more sturdy for the rigors of folding and unfolding. It also provides protection when folded.

 

having the top in the down position keeps it tight... having it up all the time is WORSE.

 

When the roof is down the inside of the window rubs against the hard surface of the roof well. This is where the majority of rear window damage occurs. A roof well mat will help protect the inside of your plastic window.

A window tube can be used to train your window to fold correctly and need only be used while parked or garaged. It does not have to be used all the time (while driving for example).

Images of these items can be found here...

http://www.prestigeautoaccessories.com/photopost

 

are you speaking from experience or from fact? merry xmas btw!