So.. I replaced the strap on my S2k 2 weeks ago but my car is still struggling to open the top. The hesitation happens at about 3/4 way down and it almost feels like something is blocking the way. Top ultimately gives in and goes all the way down after but I want to seek for the root cause as it might rip my perfect top.

Anyone who had a similar issue?

 

Mine did this once or twice several years ago, but stopped after I replaced the straps. The problem was one of the top bows that is supposed to slide forward before the top completely retracts doesn't slide forward. It gets in the way of the top going down. Well, technically, it isn't supposed to move forward... it is supposed to just stay put as the rest of the top starts to retract. You can help it along by just holding the offending bow in place as the top retracts and it finally meets up with the bow in front of it. Then let it go. Takes about three seconds. I tend to still do it just as a precaution when the weather is cooler and I'm worried the top might be stressed more than usual.

I used to have a video of it but I can't find it. Maybe someone else will have pics. This is a *very* common issue.

 

The middle bar (the one that the strap attaches to) could be getting caught. I read something on here a few years ago and it said that every time you put the top down (even with upgraded straps) you should push that bar back when the top reaches about 3/4 down. I've been pushing that bar back every single time I put down my top and have not had any problems since.