FWIW, I use a hoist (Performance Products=source). Doing so has the advantage of keeping the top out of harm's way of my clumsiness during the summer months.

When removing or re-installing, my spouse assists...she operates the crank under my instructions while I guide things into place. But I have done it alone in a pinch.

relinuca

 

Thanks for the animated sequence, is this the E-Z Top winch system from the company in Houston?

I just picked up the bits and pieces of the E-Z Top hoist from the previous owner of my Cab, will install it this weekend so I can finally open the soft top!!

 

That makes more sense. I was thinking the 33 lbs must be a lightweight track version, with the headliner removed.


My hardtop in summer storage. I didn't like the fact that it was hanging by a thin SS cable, so I strapped it up for long term storage. It's out of the way until needed.

 

The automated sequence is from the EZ Top. It's geared in such a way that it's a one man operation. Very safe--far safer than any other solution. There's something about 73 lbs of stuff simply hanging over my exposed cabriolet that just makes me shudder! (You're lucky to get one--I think they're out of business now).

 

Yes that may very well be the case, their website says they are moving and have temporarily suspended production etc. etc., but at least the website still works and I was able to download the installation manual which gave me an idea to mount the winch box to the side of the car in an available space rather than towards my storage area.

I do need to make an extension cable to extend the switch to a more convinient location though, just about to head out for some hardware shopping!

So are you comfortable with the hardtop suspended by the EZ Top winch? (assuming the installation is solid, that's the part that probably worries me the most so I span the mounting board of the beam across 3 joists just in case!)

 

EZ-Top installation complete, works as advertized. Time to take a shower, grab a bite, and go for some top-down crusing in this gorgeous summer night!

 

Question since I don't have the owner's manual and didn't want to try it and wake up the neighbourhood, but does the 2000 cab have the "infrared passenger compartment monitoring" system as described in the 2003 model owner's manual (which is the earliest 996 available on Renntech), I did notice the security system beeped once when I locked the car after exiting and with the top down/stowed, which makes me think there is a different security mode that is in effect with the top down/stowed.

BTW, top down cruising is heavenly!

 

It does have the motion sensor, but it will not be activated with the top down (open).

From the MY2000 Owners Manual:

"The infrared passenger compartment monitoring system is always switched off when the convertible top is open."

 

yeh i agree its like having two cars ,i live in NYC in the winter i keep hardtop on take it off in spring,my son helps, store in the garage no problem.

 

THAT is slick Dan!

 

I've had my hardtop a couple of months now and have had it on for an autocross. I personally didn't notice any difference in handling or weight distribution when running during the event.

Next month I'll keep it on for a DE and see how it feels.

I actually haven't taken mine off yet because it's been so hot this summer. I know the interior is quieter with it on which is can appreciate but it really mutes the sound I'm used to coming from my exhaust. After the DE I'll take it off and store it until winter.