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Contact Me |
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Terminology |
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Top = Made of multiple layers,
the top is the folding roof of a Cabrio
Roof = Another word for the
top
Boot = A cover for the top
when the top is down
Tonneau cover = An accessory
that covers the interior when the top is down
Windstop = An accessory that
mounts to the rollbar that cuts down on the amount of wind blown around in
the front seat area when the top is down
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Differences
between top types |
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Technically, there is no difference between canvas and fabric. Both canvas
and vinyl are types of fabric; therefore, "canvas" is the more accurate word
to use.
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| Canvas
vs. vinyl |
Contrary to common belief, one is
not better than the other,
nor is one more durable than the other. Both can and will last 10 years or more if properly cared for
(during summer and winter) and both
require regular maintenance. Many think canvas looks better, but those are personal
opinions. Canvas tops are more expensive than vinyl tops.
Selecting your new top is entirely up to your needs and your preferences. |
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Swapping
tops |
The tops on all 1994-2000 Cabrios are the same
and can be swapped; the frames on all Cabrios are the same and can be
swapped. The tops, excluding frames, on 2001-2002 Cabrios are slightly
different and are more expensive; however, the tops from earlier Cabrios can
be swapped onto the 2001-2002 cars (it's not recommended to swap an '01-'02
top onto an earlier Cabrio). |
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Power tops |
Cabrios that are factory-equipped with power
tops use a hydraulic pump activated by an electric switch. The pump
can be found in the trunk, behind a panel on the left side.
Power tops have requirements for their use.
In order to put the top up or down...
North American Cabrios:
The emergency brake must be engaged.
European Cabrios: The engine must be off.
Common power top problem: The plastic impeller inside the pump can break.
Click here for a DIY guide to fix it. |
| Top replacement costs |
The roof on a Cabrio is
made up of multiple layers: outer shell (top), insulation layers, headliner.
The 2001-2002 tops are more expensive because (for some stupid reason) the
window is fused into the top. The cost of a shop replacing the top
varies, but if you go this route it's wise to call around to various shops
to not only get estimates to ask if they are experienced in replacing your
specific vehicle's top. You can also install the new top yourself
using the following DIY guides for assistance:
Top Removal
and Top
Installation.
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1995-2000 |
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Part |
Approx. Cost |
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Vinyl top |
$230 |
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Canvas top |
$350 |
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Sonnendecke top |
$450 |
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Headiner |
$200 |
| Side
cables |
$40 |
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2001-2002 |
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Part |
Approx. Cost |
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Vinyl top |
$650 |
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Stayfast canvas top |
$750 |
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German canvas top |
$830 |
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Sonnendecke top |
$790 |
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Headiner |
$250 |
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Where
to buy a boot for the top |
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Used: VW forum classifieds and eBay (average cost is $60).
As with anything else on eBay, it's buyer beware: Some sellers (or, more
accurately, scammers) simply re-use old pictures and describe the boot as
being in "like-new condition!" when, in fact, the boot is an over-priced
piece of crap. Ask to see pictures (and check the date stamp of the
pictures) of all
sides of the boot before committing to buying it to make sure it's in good
condition and contains all of its parts!
New: Volkswagen Dealer, Cabrio World, M&T Mfg.,
etc. (cost is approx. $300-700).
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Cleaning
products |
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Cleaning Vinyl Top &
Boot |
Cleaning Canvas Top |
Cleaning Headliner |
Vinyl Conditioner & Protectant |
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Simple Green®
+ water + damp cloth + plastic scrub brush. For best results, do not
dilute the product before applying; instead, spray the product on, scrub
a small area then spray the area with a bit of water and scrub again,
then wipe off. Keep Simple Green off the paint! A concoction of 5
parts water, 5 parts Simple Green®
and 1 part bleach is said to clean and restore a dingy white vinyl top
to white. Keep this
solution off the paint!
Vinyl cleaner
(follow bottle's directions).
Mr. Clean Magic
Eraser + a damp cloth. |
Water only or use a
canvas-safe cleaner such as
Raggtopp cleaner. |
An upholstery/fabric
cleaner. Follow the cleaner's directions for use. |
303 is said to be the best.
Other vinyl and leather
conditioners are on the market; visit your local auto parts store for a
selection of products. |
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