964 convertible top

[Brian]

Just replaced my top on my 964 and I am getting conflicting information as to whether or not I need to unzip the rear window every time I put the top down.  Owners manual says to only unzip in cold temps.  Installer says to unzip every time. 

Also, conflicting reports as to whether or not the boot is required when the top is down.  One person says its necessary to protect the top when its down and the other guy says it is purely for asthetics.

Any thoughts?

Brian

[Tony356993]

I always unzipped my top and always used the boot. The boot helps keep dust/dirt out of the top folds while your are driving. Dust/dirt are the enemy on the rear "window" and will cause scratching. Use Plexus to keep your rear window protected and it will help repel dust.

[Brian]

Thanks. 

My top is only a week old and I am already starting to see two wear spots about halfway back just above the driver and passenger window.  They do line up with a fold when I open the top and I saw the same thing on my old top.  Should I see this so early?  Is there any way to prevent it?

Brian 

[Tony356993]

I used a cotton blanket (like diaper material) and I put one under the window and another one over the window when folded. This would protect the window from the top fabric.

[Brian]

The rear window is not showing any signs of problems.

The wear spots are occurring on the actual fabric portion of the top just above the driver and passenger window.  They are lining up with a fold that occurs when the top is opened.

 

[Tony356993]

Sorry. Sometimes the stay-fast material will get a bit lighter in color in areas that are stressed or on areas where there is a fold. I do not know of a way to prevent this. My 2006 MINI top has this nice "patina" on it's top now also.