I am planning on replacing my top on my S2 Cab.
I have seen upholstery shops charge up to $1600 for the entire job. I figure that is accurate because looking at the book, it looks like a lengthy job.
Anyway, I have a garage, some skills and time. Any advice on this one would be great.
devils944@san.rr.com
email please !

 

Being in the "cabriolet capital" of the world as you are, I would do some shopping around. Yes, I recall a fellow DIY-ing the top on his S2 in the E-Mail lists, but I wouldn't advise doing it unless you have experience doing this. If you were to damage the frame you'd be looking at a major expense.

If the $1,600 you've been quoted includes the top, it seems a bit high but within reasonable limits. The top itself can be had from Robbins for around $700 or less. I paid $650 three years ago to have it installed at a boat upholstery shop in the midwest and the results are outstanding.

$1,600 for just the installation seems outrageous and I would widen my search radius for a better deal.

 

Yes, definitely way too expensive! I was quoted $1000 even here in Pensacola, FL and they are going to use a Robbins Top. You need to shop around more, but don't go to some hole-in-the-wall place that can't afford to guarantee the installation.
Make sure that you have the shop call you when they get the lod top off the frame. It will allow you to go there with some sand paper and Rust-to-Black in order to retreat the frame with rust protection. I have never seen a frame that didn't have signs of rust on it. The shop WILL NOT treat the rust since they are not contracted to do so.