fittrjoe

Anyone out there DIY ? Just asking cause got a price of 2100 installed at a reputable upholstry shop in chicago area. Thats with a "Robbins " top which Im told is VG. Im considering doing the job myself and just asked Ian at 944on line for a diagram. I can aquire a german Soderland top for around $ 500 . Man i can put up with a lot of PITA for $ 1600 if you know what I mean. Im a decent wrench.But would need help of course.

Thanks
1990 944 s2 cab triple black ... well sorted except leaky back window ( original top )

jeffrsmith

My experience replacing rag tops was on a '73 Triumph TR6, came out nice, said I would never do it again. Time fogs the memory, fast forward 20 years, replaced the rag top on my '92 Lebaron convertible, remembered why I said never again the first time.

If you do decide to replace it yourself, take whatever time estimate you are given and at a minimum double it. If you are a perfectionist, add a little more. There is a lot of satisfaction in replacing a top and having it look good but it is a major PITA.

Considering you are talking Porsche, "major PITA" is probably an understatement.

Jrboulder

I could see that $1600 savings be reduced pretty quickly. Do it a little wrong, break the frame, buy replacement parts and another top, and end up having a shop put it on.

Jackson
1990 944 S2 Cab (sold)

markoS2

I do upholstery as a hobby. I made my own window piece and installed it. I'm strictly a DIY guy and rarely ever pay anyone to do something I even remotely think I can do myself. Replacing just the cab top window is a royal pain in the sack, and it's something I will happily pay someone else to do in the future.

ramius665

Considering that the OEM Porsche top is $7800 I would call $2100/installed a deal. There's a reason why people do upholstery jobs once and then resolve to pay the next time.

Clint's 944

I re-sewed the back window in my old Cab.....twice.....by hand. It was tedious ......but not too...too bad. I was going to replace my cab top myself eventually but then a drunk driver decided to say "hello"!

Take a look at the cabriolet supplement, the top is actually quite simple in design. If you feel you can do it...try it. At worse...you lose $500.

The deciding factor for me would be how complete is the top kit? If your going to have to cut and sew your way through it...leave it to someone that knows how. If it is relatively plug and play... I'd try it. Just remember to adjust the top bow down and re-adjust after you finish to make it taut.
Good luck!