Time for a new top? | FerrariChat

Time for a new top?

Discussion in '308/328' started by RockinRon, Jun 2, 2010.

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  1. RockinRon

    RockinRon Rookie

    May 26, 2009
    32
    Sunbury, Ohio
    Full Name:
    Ron Fuller
    #1 RockinRon, Jun 2, 2010
    Last edited: Jun 2, 2010
    I have developed a few small tears in the top for my 86 Mondial Cab and am considering replacing it because now I worry about rain and water getting inside. This blows my daily driver thought process and I want/need to drive my Ferrari. ;) Anyone have any idea if this is something a less than handy person could do without a lot of risk to the car?

    The next question, where is a good place to source the canvas?

    While I'm in there, I need to replace the U clips on the roof fastener (one if already broken and the other is probably not far behind) and remember someone here that sold them, but apparently my searching powers are useless this morning so a quick reminder would be appreciated.

    Anything else I should consider while I'm working on it?
     
  2. JoeZaff

    JoeZaff F1 Veteran
    Owner

    Aug 5, 2007
    5,459
    Philly suburbs
    Full Name:
    Joe
    #2 JoeZaff, Jun 2, 2010
    Last edited: Jun 2, 2010
    replacing the top is definitely not a do-it-yourself job. Go to a reputable shop and get it done right or you will be forever fiddling with it. I replaced mine with an exact replica from a German company--same exact materials, perfect fit. Installed, it was about $2K. I've seen the tops listed for as little as $850 (without installation) in the FCA bulletin but I don't know the quality. An OEM Ferrari top will run you about $2250.00 prior to installation, and they are getting a little long in the tooth now.

    As for the clips, the guys name is Ron Frohock, [email protected]


    Good luck!
     
  3. CliffBeer

    CliffBeer Formula 3

    Apr 3, 2005
    2,198
    Seattle, Washington
    Full Name:
    Cliff
    I have installed quite a few convertible tops and have had good success. As Joe indicated, it's a substantial job and not for the feint of heart.

    Yes, an amateur DIYer can install a top, but if it's not done right it will look terrible and potentially seal poorly....not what you want on your ferrari. But, if you're very careful and handy with tools and fitting details then you can do it just as well as any shop. There are some tips/tricks to fitting such as installing with the header bow a 1/4-1/2 inch from the windshield frame - when it's latched fully the top will pull tight and remove lose wrinkles across top (but not the sides). There's a balance here - you don't want the top so tight when up that it's difficult to raise/lower and stretching the material substantially, but you want to eliminate wrinkles and loose material.

    If the top is installed properly (and is a good top to start with) then it will be free of wrinkles or loose material when up, and raise and stow away as designed, and most importantly, seal properly. Even a slight interior leak over time can cause major corrosion...and your carpets to rot.

    For a first-timer, I would caution against trying to tackle your ferrari top. Best to practice on a few MGs, Fiats, Alfas first....
     
  4. davebdave

    davebdave Formula 3
    Owner Silver Subscribed

    Mar 18, 2007
    2,381
    Northern VA
    Full Name:
    Dave W
  5. ronfrohock

    ronfrohock F1 Rookie
    Owner Rossa Subscribed

    Aug 16, 2004
    4,156
    MA
    Full Name:
    Ron Frohock

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