How bad is the convertible top on the 993 cab?
04-26-2017, 09:41 PM
#46
Burning Brakes
I can't speak to the reliability of a 993 soft top, having never owned one (I had a coupe). However, I have owned a number of Porsche cabs, and my current 997 turbo cab is outstanding. Single function switch. Articulated cover. Drops or raises in less than 30 seconds. I love it. And since the top is covered by a body panel, there is no cab boot to worry with. So, if you are thinking about a 993 or 997 cab, you'll find the 997 at a bargain price with a top that is superior to the 993's. If you can swing the cost of a 997 turbo, you'll never have to worry about the IMS bearing since the turbo block is essentially a 993 block.
Lastly, you can be moving while putting the 997 top up down, as long as you stay below 20 mph. And, the rigidity of the 997 cab body essentially eliminates any cowl shake. Of course, as with any cab, the car is a couple of hundred pounds heavier than the coupe. But, for a weekend driver, why care?
Lastly, you can be moving while putting the 997 top up down, as long as you stay below 20 mph. And, the rigidity of the 997 cab body essentially eliminates any cowl shake. Of course, as with any cab, the car is a couple of hundred pounds heavier than the coupe. But, for a weekend driver, why care?
04-27-2017, 12:05 AM
#48
120 mph with no top cover on many occasions. My top operates perfect and I just push a button. Why should I go manual?
Last edited by Cartod; 04-27-2017 at 12:32 AM.
12-22-2017, 07:54 PM
#50
Rennlist Member
Well.......recap of my top situation since 1995:
1) Had first one for 19 years - replaced cables once - $ 900 and had latch motor recall done. Patched up any tears with matching canvas.
2) New top installed in 2014 - $ 3400 - replaced one latch motor $ 250 rebuilt.
3) Broke the side bar of roof bow when roof lowered unevenly, ripped canvas top in a small section where bar broke and that attached to side bow area. Tear repaired and barely visible - salvaged an otherwise perfect top/window. Luckily able to repair for $ 2,000 since brand new.
Total : A little of $ 6,750 in 22 years.......about $ 300.00 a year maintenance to keep it as stock.....
1) Had first one for 19 years - replaced cables once - $ 900 and had latch motor recall done. Patched up any tears with matching canvas.
2) New top installed in 2014 - $ 3400 - replaced one latch motor $ 250 rebuilt.
3) Broke the side bar of roof bow when roof lowered unevenly, ripped canvas top in a small section where bar broke and that attached to side bow area. Tear repaired and barely visible - salvaged an otherwise perfect top/window. Luckily able to repair for $ 2,000 since brand new.
Total : A little of $ 6,750 in 22 years.......about $ 300.00 a year maintenance to keep it as stock.....
03-30-2019, 11:21 PM
#51
Rennlist Member
1. I use my boot even when i drive in the city. The challenge, at least for me, is installing the boot with my windscreen, and folding the boot properly after use. The manual shows a diagram, but it's difficult, at least for me, to understand. If anyone has advice, I will appreciate your assistance.
2. I love the idea of converting my top to manual operation.
I read that you simply loosen the bolts on each side in the rear seat and use the top switch to lock and unlock the top.
I have been told NEVER to operate the motors with the bolts loose because it will throw the cable out of synchronization.
Also, I would think the same risk occurs when I use the top switch to lock/unlock with both bolts loose.
I'm also concerned that the cables will either come off or tangle in the top transmission or gears.
3. Can I leave the top switch as it came from the factory or will the warning light come on?
Converting to manual obviously has been accomplished. Anyone who already converted to manual operation to conrim my fears are unfounded?
Thank you for any help provided.
2. I love the idea of converting my top to manual operation.
I read that you simply loosen the bolts on each side in the rear seat and use the top switch to lock and unlock the top.
I have been told NEVER to operate the motors with the bolts loose because it will throw the cable out of synchronization.
Also, I would think the same risk occurs when I use the top switch to lock/unlock with both bolts loose.
I'm also concerned that the cables will either come off or tangle in the top transmission or gears.
3. Can I leave the top switch as it came from the factory or will the warning light come on?
Converting to manual obviously has been accomplished. Anyone who already converted to manual operation to conrim my fears are unfounded?
Thank you for any help provided.
04-01-2019, 09:34 PM
#52
Rennlist Member
Originally Posted by abiazis
Overview of cab ownership - 16 years......
1) The top wears out naturally at the rear shoulders on both sides.
2) Careful gentle cleaning of the plastic window with plastic cleaner is required to keep it clear - the window is glued in so there is no easy replacement via a zipper design.
3) The power latches were recalled at one time for inadvertent opening at high speeds. Once replaced they can cause issues of staying closed over time and not opening or also can not close, etc.
4) The elastic material on both sides of the the steel bar mechanism that pushes back the top when opening loses its tension and needs to be replaced every few years.
5) If number 4 occurs, there is a chance that the steel black pins (also replaced under recall) that align the top when closing can puncture the top on both sides above the rear top of the door windows.
6) The motors and cables can fail and are an expensive fix - thus manual opening solution - had my cables replaced/realigned once for $ 900 ? about 10 years ago?
7) If you don't use the boot, you can tear the headliner as it flaps in the wind at higher speeds. The boot is also expensive - $ 300 - so treat it well.....and use it.....
8 ) I use soap and water to clean the roof every other car wash and use Scotch Guard to bead up water when it rains for protection - works great...
9) I use rubber lubricant on the rubber seals/parts...every quarter of the year....have one minor leak if power washing the car...very waterproof inside
10) Top does not rattle like other cabs - solid like rest of car...
I still have an original top and was advised that the normal shelf life is about 7 years for a canvas top. I am way overdue for replacement, but the color is still good, headliner good and window is clear.....
You can find the original German canvas material not including boot for about $ 500-$ 600 including new headliner. Installation runs anywhere from $ 1,000 to $ 1,500 on average depending on the shop's rates.
I continue to use the automatic power feature to open and close, have very small canvas patches on the shoulders to prevent wear, a patch on the side of the top where the material frayed from tension to reinforce and precent further tearing, clear 4 inch by 3 inch sailboat tape on the inside of the top where the pins may puncture the top and now I have to nudge open the left latch above driver's side as it no longer pushes up the top upon opening....
All that said I still love the the open air motoring of this particular 911!!
1) The top wears out naturally at the rear shoulders on both sides.
2) Careful gentle cleaning of the plastic window with plastic cleaner is required to keep it clear - the window is glued in so there is no easy replacement via a zipper design.
3) The power latches were recalled at one time for inadvertent opening at high speeds. Once replaced they can cause issues of staying closed over time and not opening or also can not close, etc.
4) The elastic material on both sides of the the steel bar mechanism that pushes back the top when opening loses its tension and needs to be replaced every few years.
5) If number 4 occurs, there is a chance that the steel black pins (also replaced under recall) that align the top when closing can puncture the top on both sides above the rear top of the door windows.
6) The motors and cables can fail and are an expensive fix - thus manual opening solution - had my cables replaced/realigned once for $ 900 ? about 10 years ago?
7) If you don't use the boot, you can tear the headliner as it flaps in the wind at higher speeds. The boot is also expensive - $ 300 - so treat it well.....and use it.....
8 ) I use soap and water to clean the roof every other car wash and use Scotch Guard to bead up water when it rains for protection - works great...
9) I use rubber lubricant on the rubber seals/parts...every quarter of the year....have one minor leak if power washing the car...very waterproof inside
10) Top does not rattle like other cabs - solid like rest of car...
I still have an original top and was advised that the normal shelf life is about 7 years for a canvas top. I am way overdue for replacement, but the color is still good, headliner good and window is clear.....
You can find the original German canvas material not including boot for about $ 500-$ 600 including new headliner. Installation runs anywhere from $ 1,000 to $ 1,500 on average depending on the shop's rates.
I continue to use the automatic power feature to open and close, have very small canvas patches on the shoulders to prevent wear, a patch on the side of the top where the material frayed from tension to reinforce and precent further tearing, clear 4 inch by 3 inch sailboat tape on the inside of the top where the pins may puncture the top and now I have to nudge open the left latch above driver's side as it no longer pushes up the top upon opening....
All that said I still love the the open air motoring of this particular 911!!
)
04-01-2019, 09:43 PM
#53
Rennlist Member
Originally Posted by Cartod
120 mph with no top cover on many occasions. My top operates perfect and I just push a button. Why should I go manual?
04-01-2019, 10:16 PM
#54
Rennlist Member
He recommended that I continue to operate the top electrically instead of manually. He said if my top begins to drop when closing, use my hand so it drops gently.
I spoke to him before you posted shortening the cables. Sounds like it makes sense. Before he shortened your cables, was your top dropping faster as it reached the top of your windshield?
This company has been in business over sixty (60) years and is reputable. They do my convertible tops and my Interiors on my 442's.
04-08-2019, 09:14 PM
#55
Rennlist Member
Anyone have any ideas or experience in maintaining my convertible top to open and close electrically, not manually.When I open the top, I hear a motor and there is a slight delay before it begins to open.When closing my top, I hear a similar delay before my top begins to close. When my top reached the 10:00 or11:00 position, my top seems to free fall. I hold my top with my hand until my top reaches the top of the windshield and latches with power.I feel that if I don't hold my top as it begins to close, my top will fall and crack my windshield.
Any convertible owners experience anything similar and what did you do to correct?
Your experience will be appreciated.
Thank you.
Any convertible owners experience anything similar and what did you do to correct?
Your experience will be appreciated.
Thank you.
04-08-2019, 09:37 PM
#56
Rennlist Member
Seems to be normal operation as you describe.....the top is expensive to maintain and the design is just plain horrible......they say top lasts about 7 years but the mechanical parts are a crapshoot......
Anyone have any ideas or experience in maintaining my convertible top to open and close electrically, not manually.When I open the top, I hear a motor and there is a slight delay before it begins to open.When closing my top, I hear a similar delay before my top begins to close. When my top reached the 10:00 or11:00 position, my top seems to free fall. I hold my top with my hand until my top reaches the top of the windshield and latches with power.I feel that if I don't hold my top as it begins to close, my top will fall and crack my windshield.
Any convertible owners experience anything similar and what did you do to correct?
Your experience will be appreciated.
Thank you.
Any convertible owners experience anything similar and what did you do to correct?
Your experience will be appreciated.
Thank you.
08-08-2019, 02:31 PM
#57
Rennlist Member
Top worked great for several months since report of tightening pins when top latch got stuck from opening.......on the left driver's side..........
Now pin on right causing sticking on right passenger side latch..............took both pins out and top works perfect! Put pins back in after cleaning and sanding any imperfections on the pin............
Works good, but jams every 5 openings or so, unless I apply pressure to front corner of top on the driver's side with my hand while I depress open switch.................back to the adjustment drawing board....................these tops suck.......electrically or manually operated......bad design for durability - too complex...
Now pin on right causing sticking on right passenger side latch..............took both pins out and top works perfect! Put pins back in after cleaning and sanding any imperfections on the pin............
Works good, but jams every 5 openings or so, unless I apply pressure to front corner of top on the driver's side with my hand while I depress open switch.................back to the adjustment drawing board....................these tops suck.......electrically or manually operated......bad design for durability - too complex...
08-08-2019, 09:30 PM
#58
Rennlist Member
I purchased my '95 cabriolet new and I replaced one convertible top, headliner and both cables once about twenty (20) years ago. About one (1) year ago, I was closing my top and observed the top closing crookedly. I stopped closing my top immediately, loosened both bolts in the the rear and I manually closed my top. I immediately returned my car to the original upolsterer who installed my top and also does upolstery on my 442 convertibles. This company is extremely reputable and has been in business in excess of sixty 60) years. He installed two (2) new drive cables and also claimed to synchronize the motor.
Before leaving, I opened my top and then closed my top. My top reached the 11:00 position when closing and began free falling until my top slammed into the windshield frame with such force, I felt my windshield would break. I was told that my car was old, the frame is worn, and to guide the top with my hand when closing to align the pins and to minimize the possibility of breaking my windshield.
I reviewed multiple theads on our site, and the consensus is and was to convert my top to manual operation. The top, according to posters is inherently a poor design, and I have to learn to live with my top manually, instead of electrically controlled as it was originally designed.
I called many upolsterers and those familiar with Porsche told me that it was either a bad transmission, bad motors, cables, a bad frame, all or any combination of the components described.
Forget Porsche. Don't bother. They have no clue.
I was referred by an upolsterer to a mechanic in the Philly suburbs who does extensive mechanical work on Porsche cars.
I called Nick at German Auto Specialists, explained my cars history and Nick said that he could fix the top. Nick exuded confidence and assured me that the probability of a bad transmission, motors, frame or cables was highly unlikely.
I dropped my car off to Nick and the following morning received a message and a video of my top closing as it did when I originally took delivery of my car. (I am having trouble uploading the video and I need help)
It wasn't the cables, transmission, motors or frame. Nick made some repairs to the assembly that controls the tops design. Unless all of the components are adjusted and in their proper place, cabriolet owners will experience the headaches that have been described in the various posts on our site.
My top opens and closes perfectly, operates electrically, doesn't slam and the pins align perfectly.
I asked Nick if I needed to replace the cables and Nick is and was honest and told me absolutely not.
I am extremely satisfied. Just as Tony Euganeo is the Porsche locksmith, Nick from German Imports is the Tony Euganeo of cabriolet tops.
If you are beyond travel distance, I would flatbed my car to Nick for the top repair.
Before leaving, I opened my top and then closed my top. My top reached the 11:00 position when closing and began free falling until my top slammed into the windshield frame with such force, I felt my windshield would break. I was told that my car was old, the frame is worn, and to guide the top with my hand when closing to align the pins and to minimize the possibility of breaking my windshield.
I reviewed multiple theads on our site, and the consensus is and was to convert my top to manual operation. The top, according to posters is inherently a poor design, and I have to learn to live with my top manually, instead of electrically controlled as it was originally designed.
I called many upolsterers and those familiar with Porsche told me that it was either a bad transmission, bad motors, cables, a bad frame, all or any combination of the components described.
Forget Porsche. Don't bother. They have no clue.
I was referred by an upolsterer to a mechanic in the Philly suburbs who does extensive mechanical work on Porsche cars.
I called Nick at German Auto Specialists, explained my cars history and Nick said that he could fix the top. Nick exuded confidence and assured me that the probability of a bad transmission, motors, frame or cables was highly unlikely.
I dropped my car off to Nick and the following morning received a message and a video of my top closing as it did when I originally took delivery of my car. (I am having trouble uploading the video and I need help)
It wasn't the cables, transmission, motors or frame. Nick made some repairs to the assembly that controls the tops design. Unless all of the components are adjusted and in their proper place, cabriolet owners will experience the headaches that have been described in the various posts on our site.
My top opens and closes perfectly, operates electrically, doesn't slam and the pins align perfectly.
I asked Nick if I needed to replace the cables and Nick is and was honest and told me absolutely not.
I am extremely satisfied. Just as Tony Euganeo is the Porsche locksmith, Nick from German Imports is the Tony Euganeo of cabriolet tops.
If you are beyond travel distance, I would flatbed my car to Nick for the top repair.
Last edited by Twilightblue28A; 08-09-2019 at 01:23 PM.
08-08-2019, 11:46 PM
#59
Rennlist Member
Anyone know how I can post a video of my top operating. The video was sent to my email address. I tried uploading the video on this thread and I rececive a message that an MP-4 file is not acceptable to upload.
Any alternatives?
Any alternatives?
08-09-2019, 11:51 AM
#60
Rennlist Member
This is my video of my convertible top after repairs.
