Soft top replaced -- too tight
#1
Thread Starter
Soft top replaced -- too tight
Recently had top replaced on my MY 2000. Experienced upholstery shop used GAHH replacement. Beautiful top, but the fit is so tight I can barely latch and unlatch. We have tried everything we can including sitting it in the sun with sand bags on top, but have found nothing to adjust. I came across mention of an adjustable striker but have not located one for purchase. Does anyone have a solution that could work?
#4
Sometimes wetting and sun-drying the fabric will help. I'd certainly wet it ruthlessly and check for leaks. Roof replacement is an all day job and requires taking many panels off the car, checking drains, etc.
-- Chuck
-- Chuck
#5
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MadCityS2K (06-06-2018)
#8
Thread Starter
Thanks, all, for your replies. The top was replaced last October and stored (latched) until mid-April. I have been working with the upholstery shop to find a solution. They are very experienced on lots of vintage restorations. They described the S as the most difficult they ever ran into, and the only vehicle without any latch adjustments. After lots of sunshine and ups and downs, I can unlatch with effort. But, left overnight in the garage, it is back to super tight. Strikers are original soft-top, not hard top. The original top had plastic window, new top has glass.
#9
Community Organizer
I replaced a top with one like you mentioned, take the advice of the members above and leave it latched in the sun for some time as the top will stretch. I will say that it was a PITA to latch the top but it will conform to the car over time.
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MadCityS2K (06-06-2018)
#10
Just me, but I don't make it habit to leave the top down in the garage for extended periods of time. When My S2k is parked, even in the garage, it's parked with the top up and windows up. Mainly to keep the interior clean of dust and dirt. Leaving the top up for longer periods will help stretch it out also.
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MadCityS2K (06-06-2018)