I have a 2000 Cab and noticed yesterday that the Fabric Top has separated from the Clear Window's plastic in the bottom corner leaving an opening that water can get into. It appears that the fabric and the window are fastened by an adhesive of some sort. The rest of the top is in perfect condition including a clear, non-yellowed window. I would hate to have to replace the entire roof. Does anyone know what type of adhesive I can use there?

 

Go to a local upholstery shop. They have the glue for it.

 

I would bet that the adhesive will not work. It sounds like time to have it re-sewn. I did the same thing 2 years ago - dealer wanted $1400, a local shop charged $600 and included a new clear rear window. Was good as new when they finished.

 

The window is actually plastic "welded" in with adhesive. It is a very complicated process which involves fitting a heated frame around the plastic window and top which is connected to the rear wheels for support. Many dealers in my area will not touch this procedure. There is actually a TSB on the top, and due to the difficulty, Porsche now makes an OEM top with the window pre-sewn in (properly - a visible seam, not stitching) from the factory. I do not think the success rate is very high at installing a new window properly (per Porsche instructions). It depends on what you want to spend, or if you care that stitching is visible around the window. Whatever you decide, make sure they have experience with the 996. Oh yeah, if you decide to have the top sewn in, make sure it is done correctly with backing so it does not leak. The dealer I brought my car to is on their third try...

 

DFC:

Sounds like you have experience in the top field. How much is a new top installed????

99C2

 

It depends...

I am going through a very trying experience right now on the subject, so I am aware of some of the prices - and more of the difficulties...

I think the factory oem top was around $3250 list (top and installation).

Dealer installation of the rear window in a new original style top was around $700 list (window and labor).

I know that the Porshce TSB top with the factory sewn in rear window is around $3800 list plus installation.

An aftermarket top/window in my area, using German canvas, is around $2200 (top and installation).