I've got a 2001 S2000. I'm going to be replacing the top and keep seeing these tops with glass windows for only 100 bucks more. I would love to go glass, and was wondering how difficult the modification kits are to install. I've seen a few shops online selling these things but none of them list instructions or even a parts list for me to get a general idea of what I'm getting myself into.

Are these things fairly straight forward? I've never messed with my top before.
Anyone have a general idea of how long they take to install? I installed my supercharger and all other modifications. I haven't had much experience with upholstery or anything, so I'm not sure if it's a whole 'nother league or not.

I appreciate the help,
Dave

 

i think theres a write up some where on the forum. i'm doing mine as well. my top just came in last week. Honda quoted 12hrs labor on installing the top and they told me they wouldnt do it for me because it might take them longer. i know there are some modifications required. u going to have to remove ur seats, center console, etc. i need to find that write up myself.

the top on ebay are oem style. ive seen one in person, it dint look too bad but the fabric feels a little bit different. i went with the genuine oem '07 top. ordered from honda for $806.22 with tax. i think it will be a good investment.

 

I think an SC is easier and faster to install than a top, especially when putting a glass top on an early frame.

It requires two rigid straps be added to the frame, exactly the right length.

It also requires two heavy duty springs be added to the frame. There are no provisions to add the springs, so some are using elastic straps.

The rear bar on the 00-01 frame has mountnig provisions for the old top. The new top does not use this, and will leave an unsightly bar at the back of the frame. In addition, it does not leave a smooth surface for the pull cloth to glide over.

I'd plan on 12-15 solid hours if you've never done it before.

 

i'm not sure if i know which part ur talking about. i'm not really sure of the diff. between the newer tops.

 

thanks for the responses guys. I think I may just stick with the plastic window. I really appreciate your input! I don't think the install would be my cup of tea. Even taking it to an upholstery shop doesn't sound too encouraging, as I don't think many of the ones around here would have much experience doing this type of install.

Thanks a ton guys! You've saved me a lot of time and money.
Dave

 

Id like to do the conversion as well. The easiest way would to get a 02+ frame and softop and just swap it out, it just bolts right in, elimintaing attaching the 02+ soft top on a 00-01

 

True....finding a 02 and up top and frame assy will save you major time, and it turns a very technical job into a bolt on job.

 

one of the bars is about 1 inch off. it doesnt line up with the ridge in the top but i would not call it a deal breaker. i did my top in about 10 hrs and it was a firster for me. you will need rivets, an assortment of them. i gutted the whole back but i think you could get away with not taking out anything but the back trys. it does give you room but it is hell to put all back together. plus you end up with tons of screws and clip that you will need to keep up with. if you can get your hands on an 02 frame and top, i say go for it. it is more of a bolt on. you looking at 6hrs that way. i would say if i had to do it again for someone it would want to charge $200-$300 if that gives you an idea of the work load. its just too much of a pain in the ass. all that said, i would have have it any other way, glass is the way to go.

 

The bar that you say is off, is only off if the add-on rigid straps are the incorrect length.

Making a hole in the rigid strap is the very last step before bolting them behind the top retainers. It is these straps that directly designate the position of the rearmost bar.

 

your talking about the wrong bar.
the gap between bar A and bar B is 10 inches on the Glass top, but on the 2001 it is 11 inches. bar B is the one that has moved. i think this is to keep the bar from resting on the glass when the top is down.