Due to a delivery hazard, I'm getting the new top via insurance. Ford dealer is not extra convertible savvy, I'm told they will use a 3rd party, who whom I approve-there's just this one guy in the area and he's done tops for like 45 years [did my firebird 10 years ago.], but they said they'd likely replace the top with a http://www.robbinsautotopco.com/index.php not a Ford factory. Any thoughts? What should I look out for? Searching here, the pros seems to approve of the Robbins, how's it different that what I have? The one I have just has a cosmetic scratch...no leaks or tears. It's a 2007 GT/CS. Thanks!

 

Kelly,

I have been installing Robbins conv. tops now for 18 years. This is truly the premier top and in certain instances, Robbins is the original top manufacturer.

Other companies do a good job too, but Robbins does it better. Thank whoever suggested installing this top.

scan

 

Thanks for responding. What should I check when the work is completed (besides the obvious, top goes up/top goes down/windows work-dont' leak...) Stuff a pro would know to look for. Where might corners be cut?

 

You should tell the installer that you want him to use stainless staples on the rear tacking bar.

In order to do this job properly, I take the whole rear of the interior out of the car (seat bottom, seat backrest, side interior plastic panels) and then hoist the whole convertible top frame and all out of the car and do the replacement out on the work table. When the job is done this way, you look for things like the side panels not being reinstalled properly, etc.

Some installers install the top cover while the frame stays on the car. Look for scratches around the edges of the convertible top opening on the paint and black plastic trim. If they don't install padding in these areas, it is easy to scrape the car up with the rear of the convertible frame.