LI911

I decided to try and repair the delaminated window and buy some time before replacing with a new top.

I'm following the Renntech DIY but ran into an issue. One of the steps is to glue the canvas to window. There is about a 1/4" hem that as a result of the delamination process unfolded itself. I need to re-fold that "hem", apply glue and clamp it for 24 hours.

Being that my window hasn't fully delaminated, the problem is that there is too much tension for me to fold the hem back up against the window (along the entire bottom) glue it and then clamp.

I am considering removing the molding that holds the top in place below the window -I don't know what it's called but I attached a couple of pictures I found online. This would seemingly take all the tension off the canvas.

Does anyone know if I'd be opening a whole other can of worms?

Also any advice on how it comes off and reinstalls would be appreciated.

frisbee91

Hi. I wrote the Renntech DIY after having done this myself. I'm not exactly clear of the problem. If the window hasn't delaminated all the way across, you still should be able to fold the hem down and stitch the first pass to align the window and canvas. Or maybe I'm not understanding your situation?

Some detailed pics would help...

LI911

Thanks for putting together that DIY.

I think the problem was that I was working in a cold garage last night, once I got it in the sun it was easier to stretch the canvas and fold the hem over the window.

My plan now is to tack it together in a few spots (I think I'll use fishing line as thread for the temporary tacks), and then apply the glue and clamps. If that doesn't work, I'll just end up trying to sew the hem without glue and fight to keep it in place one stitch at a time.

Thanks again for your help!

frisbee91

Would definitely recommend the glue-then-clamp-then-sew approach. Skip the use of any silicone caulk. Good luck.

pl

i would hold off this repair until next month. i don't think u should even operate the roof when temp is below 45F

LI911

Today's temp is ok for the top, once it's in the sun it heats up. Doesn't matter though I threw in the towel on this project.

Between breaking needles, stabbing myself with needles (once in the freakin stomach somehow!), developing new 4 letter words and my helper wife considering divorce... . $1200 for a new top is better than losing 50% of everything, not to mention medical costs to remove the needles from my abdomen.

Unfortunately this project was beyond my capabilties.

pl

what tool did u use?

pl

i found this tool which can punch as small as 1mm hole, may give it a try

http://www.tandyleatherfactory.com/e...h-3229-00.aspx

frisbee91

I used the "speed stitcher sewing awl". You can get it online. I think Harbor Freight carries a cheap one as well. You can find much more info in the links in Post #2 above.

wyovino

I did this last year and it was a major pain like LI911 says. I also stabbed myself a bunch of times. The needles that come with the Harbor Freight awl break very easily. I went through all of the ones that came with the kit, then bought another kit and went through those too. There is no easy way to do this job because no matter how you angle yourself, something is in the way. I did get it done and it got me through the summer, but it doesn't look that great. I'll test it for leaks once the hardtop comes off. If it fails, I'll have to spend the money for a new top otherwise I'll see if I can make it one more season.

LI911

I used the Speedy Stitcher with the V92 thread and #22 needles as Frisbee outlined in his DIY. Like Wyovino said the real problem is trying to feed the needle through without running into the zippers.

The needles do really well piercing through skin though! Frisbee you must have the patience of a saint.

LI911

I don't see how that tool would work for repairing the window? It would need to give you about 6" of clearance to position it correctly to puncture the canvas. Am I missing something?