WOW, Who knew a new Vert top would be so difficult?

[win_k]

Replaced the top on my 01 Vert today.

I've probably spent over $200 trying to waterproof the original, but while it looks great, it lets lots of rain in. (not like we EVER get rain here in Florida)

So, rather than throw good money after bad, I bit the bullet and peeled the old fabric off and installed a new one.

Opted for a Chrysler spec vinyl rather than OEM fabric. Nearly half the cost, won't leak and while it'll have a shorter life span than the fabric, should last the life of the car, or at least my ownership of it.

Still, holey smokes! Definitely not plug and play or a job for the faint of heart. Better part of 8 hours learning how the old the old one comes off and getting the new one fitted and weather tight.

Still need to reinstall the NG900 headliner and find a solution for the front plastic trim across the very front. Mine came off in many pieces, the heat here in Florida really took it's toll on the plastic.

Think I'm going to try a want ad in the classifieds, see if anyone up north can find one in a breakers yard or on a non-sun baked car they're parting out.

It'll be nice just to have the car weather tight, have plenty of time to worry about the interior trim for it.

Time for an adult beverage (or two) I think...

[BobSaabit]

win_k - are you talking about the plastic panels next to the hand latch in the front? I can check the yards up here in MA... they get 'verts in at times. The only trouble is that you have to be there within days of arrival or someone will have already hacked it apart in most cases.

Could you do a write up of the replacement work? I may need to do this job soon.

[win_k]

Yea, I took a bunch of pictures, particularly of the disassembly and will probably write up a how-to.

I did make a few mistakes that caused extra work, will try to point folks around those.

That two piece panel at the hand latch is exactly the one (ok, two) bit that I need to replace. Not sure if it was a ton of sun and UV from being open so much or just heat but mine is in really bad shape. If you find a pair, please let me know -- heck, snap them up and then let me know!

Have thought about using what I've got to make a mold and then duplicate them in fiberglass. I'd not be able to duplicate the hidden attachments, but a few discrete screws would not be objectionable.

[BobSaabit]

... checking the EPC, it looks like they only come in one color (gray, I assume).

Part #'s 48 55 698, 48 55 706 if I have it right (Retail $235 - holy roof latch, Batman!)

[win_k]

Originally Posted by BobSaabit

... checking the EPC, it looks like they only come in one color (gray, I assume).

Part #'s 48 55 698, 48 55 706 if I have it right (Retail $235 - holy roof latch, Batman!)

Yep, grey is the only color and now you see why I'm looking for good used or even to go the route of making my own.