I just noticed today that the top is separating from the rear window, near the bottom of the window - approximately three inch long separation. Whatever the material is that is affixed to the window, it’s still in place. The backing to the fabric top is as well. Does anyone know, or recommend, a sealant to use on this?

Thanks!

DRW

 

I had the same problem, tried various glues DYI and by body shop nothing worked, ended up replacing whole soft top at about 3500 (part only, at that time UK dealers were allowed to ship to USA), US dealer wanted 7000 for the part.

Supposedly AM orlando tech has some kind of trick to fix it but i see you are in VA. You could still call them and ask them if they will help you.

I think it would be worthwhile to have someone buy the canopy in uk for you form the dealer in London or even make a trip and buy it yourself. dealers here are rip off. I tweeted CEO of AM (Andy) about this rip off and told him that rather than preventing UK dealers form shipping to US they should ask US dealers to lower their profit, never heard back from him.

 

My regular repair shop took my Vantage Roadster to a glass service shop and they used some sort of glue or sealer to rebond the top. It worked like a charm for years until I recently traded it.

 

If your handy you can try a diy from amazon, read the reviews that have a few pictures. Key is clean surface, good urethane adhesive for glass and 24-48hr cure time.

 

I have the same issue. I looked for a bunch of different top repair places - and all wanted to just replace the top at $7K+. While a new blue top would look really great instead of the black one I currently have, this would trash the maintenance budget I have set up for my DB9. I am going to go the 3M adhesive route and try that before I replace the top. There are numerous positive reviews on Amazon for the 3M adhesive and primer, and a lot of you tube videos on how to do it. I am going to try that first.

 

I had a PPI done on a vantage roadster that had this issue. as someone mentioned below, my dealer AM Orlando has a process they use that includes a clamping jig to facilitate the work. at the time (2017) it was about $1200 or so. they had done a few going back a few years with no trouble... as I recall, it included removing the fabric from the bow...

 

I was going to be using the same sort of clamping and jig to repair the top. Using the 3M 086090 Urethane adhesive (or the 3M 08693 adhesive - but doesn't come with nozzle) and 3M 08682 single step primer plus some suction cup clamps, I should be good to go. I will be using a metal yard stick to clamp the clamps to the fabric to give it some support. I will probably use a couple of sleeping bags or rolled up towels to support the back window. I also intend to use a lot of painters tape and paper to prevent the adhesive from getting on everything.

I plan to start when I get the nerve up to try it - it is a lot cheaper than a new top. For about $75, it is worth a try.

 

Absolutely, I heard an inflatable mattress worked well also to fill out the inside for even pressure on the glass but the clamps should work.

 

From my previously life where I worked extensively with adhesives, meticulous attention to surface preparation is critical to a good bond.
Also, if adhesive is two part, strict compliance with mixing ratios is necessary.

Thanks,
JH

 

I talked with Steel Wings this morning regarding my top. Apparently there is a DB9 service bulletin out regarding repair of the roof where the rear window has become detached. They indicated they could repair it. Although a blue roof would look excellent with the silver car and light grey interior, it just isn't cost effective.

 

My friend's DB9V rear window was doing the same thing as yours, he took it to AM Summit and they were able to fix it. The top has been holding strong for over a year. Not sure how far NJ is from you?

 

I am having the same issue with my 2008 DB9 Volante and am exploring options. I live close to Summit (in Connecticut) and would be interested in more details about your friend's experience in NJ. Who he worked with at AM Summit, price, etc. Any information is greatly appreciated.

Also does anyone has more detail about the AM service bulletin on the issue..

 

Hi Sliderule 01... I have total faith in Steel Wings...Jon re-builts Astons of all years...He purchased an Aston Martin software reader recently.
He has worked on my car a couple of times. Recently he held the first AMOC event at his place that featured the designer of the V12 engine..when Ford owned AM.
Very interesting...he had a huge turnout and was allowed to have non AMOC people attend.
I would believe the most Aston Martins I have ever seen in one location. More then Rich in Florida when I attended his Tech Day...lol
Next is Summit ..great people and service...I try to avoid the guy by the bridge but a few members are happy with him as one guy had a bad engine and they did get Aston in England to replace for free..

Good luck and I hope you get your car repaired properly and within budget.
Regards...
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I second Steel Wings. Jon is amongst the best in the business and as honest as they come.

Good luck with your top fix.

 

Based on my conversations with him I am looking forward to working with him. We had a nice discussion regarding the service records I had, and what service I should be getting. I am scheduling to get my top repaired in December when I have some vacation time.

I really wanted to go to the AMOC event at Steel Wings but just was not able to make it. I guess I should really join AMOC - but not sure how active they are in the area. Thank you for all the assistance.