Convertible Tops
This blog I'm going to write about the Porsche911 Targa and Cabriolet along with the Volkswagen Bug Convertible. Before I begin Legend specializes in many makes and model of convertibles as well as offering upholstery services.
When I get the opportunity to replace the top and back window I take it as a challenge to replicate as close as possible how Porsche did the original installation . From removal of all the hardware, refinishing the black fasteners, trim pieces and cleaning and prepping for the new install to checking the drive mechanism "often overlooked" for proper function on the cabriolet. The Targa which is fully manual still needs attention to proper folding and alignment. The Targa has three layers of material on the outside and a headliner on the inside. Right now there is one in the shop that will require all of these components along with new seals. We will strip it down, clean the frame then paint. Re-tap all the threads both male and female and prep for install. This project all the pieces will be cut and sewed in our shop as I have not found any offerings that match the fit and finish that the originals were done in. Back to the Cabriolet we do use the top and window from a particular vendor as they have done an excellent job of making it. As mentioned frame and operation of the mechanism is checked and service as needed before a new window and top is installed. There is an Achilles heal to this car which is checked and repaired if needed as if failed will cause the folding mechanism to bind and break the frame . This can really add to the repair bill. "Please Note' if your top slaps down when closing or side to side isn't level that's a sign to have it checked and serviced immediately to save from repairing the frame and damaging the top.
We do the Bug tops from all years but for this Blog I will be discussing from 1963 to 1979 as they are the most popular years. 1973 to 1976 the big change was a front metal header with a screwed on retainer and t previous years had a wood bow and no retainer so to speak of. We make our own in-house headliner as nothing offered come close to fitting and being smooth and tight. I learned from working on these years when you could still get the original parts from Volkswagen. Typical parts like cables get replaced and along with making our headliner we also make the envelope that the padding gets installed in both the main deck and quarters. Sometimes the rear window frame needs re-bonging and sanding and painting the retainer ring along with this detail. Earlier models use lots of wood pieces and we can replace them as well. It takes some time to get these right ,after market parts "ugh". Please call us with your project we look forward to working with you. Paul