canadaman

Hey everyone,

I've got a 98 with the original top. After 15 years it's just done. Every time I put it down a new hole appears. The rear glass is separating as well. Time for a replacement.

The local shops are quoting about $900. Ouch. I wouldn't mind doing it myself but a quick look around and I'm wondering what I need to get.

Here's what I've found

Top (really need this)
Rear window (probably need this)
Headliner
Side cables
Top pads

All that comes to almost $600. $300 for labor doesn't seem that bad. My headliner seems fine and the side cables look good too. I have no idea about the pads. Reusing the existing parts would save about $250 making a DIY much more appealing.

Do I really need all this stuff? How do you tell what needs to be replaced.

Thanks!

scan1959

You definetly need the back window. If yours is pulling away from the vinyl, it's just about to turn into a rain scoop.

Don't buy a new headliner.

Don't buy a kit. Just buy a top and back window. You don't need new pads. You might need to replace a tacking strip where the webbing is stapled to.

If your cables are corroded or rusted, replace them. You don't want to have to replace them in 6 months by taking the top apart again.

Scan

canadaman

Hi Scan,

Thanks for the info. That's exactly what I needed to know. I'll order a top this week. The only question is will I spend more in beer, pizza, and bandages than a professional install would cost.

If you've got a recommendation for a brand I'd love to hear it.

I'm also seeing all-in-one or one piece convertible tops (top and glass) on eBay. I'm steering clear of them unless I hear they're OK.

Thanks!

JC316

I will let you know about the one piece top. Mine will be delivered tomorrow.

scan1959

I have installed many of the 1 piece tops on Chrysler Sebrings.

They are alot easier to install, cheaper to buy and look almost the same to most people. I like the fact that you don't have a heavy glass hanging off the back frame bow.

The only drawback is that you will have a constant shimmy as the back window kind of vibrates because it is lighter.

I can install 2 one-piece tops for the price of one OEM style 2 piece tops. They should last 4 to 5 years. Same quality/weight of convertible vinyl, and you don't have to be paranoid about checking the rear convertible well that the top folds down into (Did my kid leave his backpack back there?).

Never had any complaints by my customers.

EZ On's Best Value line of 1 piece tops is the brand I have been installing. I understand other manufacturers are getting onboard with theirs.

Scan

JC316

I got mine in today. Quality looks solid. Hoping to get it mostly installed tonight. Took me 2.5 hours to get the old one off.

JC316

I will tell you what you need. Patience and back muscles that are made of steel. Working solo it's taken me 7 hours to get the old one off and the new one 75% done.

JC316

Done and done. Took me 10 hours. I am not 100% happy with it, but that was mainly first time installer error. It will give you an idea of what the 1 piece looks like.

canadaman

Hey JC316,
Thanks for the pics. That looks a lot better than I expected. I think I'll get a two piece because I really want the glass window. Do they make 1 pieces with glass windows?

JC316

No problem. I haven't seen a 1 piece with a glass window.