Convertible window problem
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 6,501
Likes: 1,938
From: The Golden Triangle, Florida
2024 C2 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C2 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
St. Jude Donor '20 thru '25
Convertible window problem
As shown in the pictures below, my convertible window is separating from the top fabric in a couple of places. It's still attached in those places with no daylight between the window and the top yet but it doesn't look good and I don't know how long before it comes apart completely.
Is the window typically glued or heat welded to the fabric and would it be repairable? We live in a big boating community with dozens of boat stores. Is this something that could be fixed at a boat canvas repair shop? The top is nearly new and I rarely use it so I don't want to pop for an entire new top.
Also, I'm wondering if anyone has ever replaced their window with a zippered window? How about a glass window instead of a plastic window.
I appreciate any comments, suggestions, ideas.
Thanks,
-- Steve
Is the window typically glued or heat welded to the fabric and would it be repairable? We live in a big boating community with dozens of boat stores. Is this something that could be fixed at a boat canvas repair shop? The top is nearly new and I rarely use it so I don't want to pop for an entire new top.
Also, I'm wondering if anyone has ever replaced their window with a zippered window? How about a glass window instead of a plastic window.
I appreciate any comments, suggestions, ideas.
Thanks,
-- Steve
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 6,501
Likes: 1,938
From: The Golden Triangle, Florida
2024 C2 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C2 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
St. Jude Donor '20 thru '25
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 5,073
Likes: 414
From: Maine
Sail maker
Hi, just before my 48 state trip, I needed my window replaced, did not want to replace canvas at the time, I live in Maine , took my car to sail maker, took off top (frame and all) left it with him, he sew in a new piece plastic, with a special long arm machine. My canvas was 30 years old, real canvas, made for me, so the plastic was orginally sown in. He sew the thread in the old holes. Neet ,,lasted 2 years and replaced it with a German top again.
cost $250 .
As you stated, in boat country, should not be a problem
Jack
cost $250 .
As you stated, in boat country, should not be a problem
Jack
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 4,182
Likes: 94
From: going faster miles an hour...with the radio on in browns mills new jersey
The windows are installed using RF heatsealing technics. Your window is separating in areas where the seal was too 'cold'.
You can DIY the repair without too much difficulty.
Use the glue from a vinyl repair kit (no substitutes). Apply the glue sparingly and clamp the area firmly. I used steel rules (wrapped in cellophane so any excess glue wouldn't stick to them) and "C" clamps.
Be very careful not to get any glue on the visible parts of the window. If you do, don't try to mess with it at all until the glue has dried.
P.S. The top stays on the car.
You can DIY the repair without too much difficulty.
Use the glue from a vinyl repair kit (no substitutes). Apply the glue sparingly and clamp the area firmly. I used steel rules (wrapped in cellophane so any excess glue wouldn't stick to them) and "C" clamps.
Be very careful not to get any glue on the visible parts of the window. If you do, don't try to mess with it at all until the glue has dried.
P.S. The top stays on the car.
Last edited by nassau66427; Mar 20, 2013 at 06:31 PM.
