I want to get a new soft top for my 1999 996. Thinking about tan instead of same old black. Any pics out there of a black 996 with a tan top? (I have tan interior). Also, anyone know if this is a straightforward DIY job? Looks like to sewing or glueing is required for the top. Thanks!

 

This is NOT a straightforward job! Get a pro to do it. Also, you can get a glass window now...

www.gahh.com

 

Agreed, this is probably NOT a DIY project for 99% of owners. Today's cab tops are pretty complicated systems. Let the pros do it. The glass window would probably be a good alternative.

I think the tan would look good with the black exterior.

 

Yep. I'll have the pros do it. I was quoted 5 hours for the job. The glass windo worries me that it's too small and that it may pull away from the fabric. I saw one that was pulling away and basically unfixable.

 

do a search on the GaHH glass top. I have heard good things.

 

also make sure that the shop doing the work has worked on porsche's before. try to call some of their previous customers and see if they are pleased with the work. the problem with replacing the fabric top is that they will leak if the shop does not do it exactly the right way. there is also weather stripping and seals that should and must be replaced as well.

 

One word of caution on the tan top, light colors are much less forgiving when it comes to showing their age, dirt, wear, or stains. I had a tan top on a miata in the past, it looked very nice, but even after all of the cleaning, it never looked as good as new.

 

Went through the same ordeal 1 year ago :
- professional instalation is a must
- you should definitely buy the GAHH top with glass window. It's the pastic one that detaches with age, not the glass one...
- visibility is not an issue at all