I'm looking for a transparent targa top for my 2010 GS coupe and have a couple of options. I'd like to get a good used panel from an 09 or 10 considering that there are latch improvements made for noise beginning in late 08.

1) How difficult is it to upgrade the latch hardware on an earlier roof panel and what is the cost of parts?
2) Seems like there are many panels being sold less hardware (latches, weatherstrip). Is it difficult to add the weatherstrip and latches to one of these "bare" panels and what is the cost?

PS -- can't get enough of my GS!! What a car!

Regards,
Dave K.

 

the other option is to buy a new one from Gene Culley at http://www.gmpartshouse.com/.. He was running a special on them but not sure if he still is..

/jc

 

The parts are really expensive.

 

Don't know about the cost, but I do occasionally see used ones for sale as well. Some get both tops and only use one. I didn't think I would like only having the clear top, but I don't think I would order a regular top if I were to order a new one at this point. I really do love the clear top.

 

The upgraded latches are overrated...My clear top has them and it pops so don't let that be an issue....if the latches happen to make your yop pop you can use the clips...

 

I remeber seeing new transparent tops w/out hardware for around $600 and new transparent tops w/hardware for around $1200 from the same supplier. Looks like the hardware is expensive.

 

The hardware is incredibly expensive. It's ridiculous. I had to order the weatherstripping for my new one when I dropped my old one... I ordered the weatherstripping for one side and it was nearly $400. For a piece of rubber with some aluminum in it.

I have a damaged top from my '07 that you can have for 300 bucks. It's not severely damaged.

 

Don't screw around and buy a used top, brand new ones complete go for about $1,100 shipped. The packaging necessary to get it shipped without damage is only available with a new top from G.M. parts.

 

But you see used ones advertised on C6 Parts forum fairly often. If you're fortunate to find one thats in reasonable driving distance, you can make sure it's in perfect condition and you won't have shipping issues. Asking prices are typically $750-800.

 

I have a new (used less than three times total) transparent top in excellent condition with the GM carrying case from an 07 (via Gene). Is this something you are interested in? PM me.

 

Hawk,

What are the clips that you refer to?

Regards,
Dave K.

 

We call it the E-clip mod from mrtoner. I did it on our 2006 and that was much better than our 2009 which is now on it's second set of "improved" latches.

As mentioned above, used tops often are beginning to crack (difficult to see at first) or get damaged during shipment. I would only buy a used one that I could inspect in bright sunlight and drive home installed on my car.