430 Convertible top replacement

Replace every single part that has elastic. I’ll have to look up the rear straps but I remember them being around $350 each. I was able to remake mine though for a fraction.

 

Oh, and if you don’t mind, can i have your old top after it is removed if they don’t cut it off?

 

According to the interwebs, the top mechanism was design by CTS Fahrzeug-Dachsysteme GmbH, later bought out by Magna: https://aldousvoice.com/2013/02/05/ferrari-360-spider-roof/

The elastics are primarily located in the headliner, not the top. There are a couple on the top itself but are not removable.

The rear straps are called the rear screen tensioner straps. #23 in the diagram: https://www.eurospares.com/Ferrari/430/F430_Spider_(USA)/PartDiagrams/0111/ROOF_CANVAS_-_SEALS_-_MOULDINGS?ref=023

I have yet to see those included in any kit. There are also a variety of small elastics that are situated around the frame for what I can only guess are there to prevent rubbing/marking from the inside. These are attached to the frame only and not part of the top or the headliner assembly. If your installer has a good quality 1" automotive grade elastic on hand, these can be replaced easily by cutting to size.
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I paid to have my top replaced in 2023 and it was $4500 with elastic strap repair included.

i did my own cylinder repair and replaced the front rubber strip myself tho.

top came from GAHH and was indistinguishable from oem other than the window was sewn in versus zippered I believe.

 

It's funny, there's a replacement procedure for just the rear window but the process is so involved, it's just better to replace the entire top.

 

You mean on the oem top?

 

Correct.

 

there is a left and right. I was able to remake these for a lot less than $500 obviously using new elastic and some top material.

 

Hmm. I see there isn’t a RH listed. The part is clearly listed as LH and I know they are not identical. They’re mirror images and have a slight taper.

 

Yeah 5-6 would cover it. Also yes any convertible top specialty shop who can do this top should absolutely be able to do the elastics also. The material costs very little but there is some labor to do it.

 

If you have the down time, 100% do the cylinders. That's my only regret. I would have actually yanked the whole system out and had it redone with new seals from this place: https://tophydraulics.com/ferrari/106-2262-f430-spider-05-09-full-set.html#/30-core_exchange-send_your_parts_to_top_hydraulics_first

If you haven't had your cylinders repaired yet, it's only a matter of time at this age and they'll never be more easy to access than when the top is off.

 

Yes I would do the cylinders. I did my cylinders first to make sure the mechanics were right and then did the top itself but doing them all together makes total sense.

there is one in the middle of the plastic piece where the hooks engage over the front window, two above the door windows, two behind the seats on the outboard side, and two in the engine bay under the radiation shields. They are shown in the wsm I believe.

the cylinders are shared with a few models of Mercedes products but it’s probably easier to remove them and send them off than reseal yourself. I did mine myself but I did it a few times before I got it right. If you want my notes on that lmk I have a source for seals but he is extremely slow.

 

My 430 top replacement has been a nightmare over $8K smh

 

What happened?

 

The glue would not adhere properly install took like a month. Now my windows don’t slide into rubber stripping properly so getting a lot of wind noise

good luck with your project!!

 

Also consider replacing the microswitches as they will be VASTLY easier to access with the top off. If not replaced, then by all means have them checked and treated to make sure they don't stick and are all calibrated properly. The touch points can get out of whack pretty easily. Ask me. how I know.