Installing this top yourself? Read this first: These tops should be installed without the window having been pre-cut. This guarantees that the rear section is under proper tension before the window opening is cut. The opening is easy to mark and cut per our instructions. Some do-it-yourself installers will take their completed top to a glass shop to have the window installed into the frame.
The original Rabbit and VW Cabriolet convertible top fabric is 'Cabrio Vinyl'.Our premium, original replacement top is of the highest quality featuring original 'rain guide' seams, reinforced heat sealed quarter sections, heavy duty welting.
Rabbit convertibles made before 1984 originally had pinpoint vinyl tops. However the later year Cabrio Vinyl tops will fit perfectly because they have the identical geometrical layout. But the later tops have superior construction details.
When replacing a Cabriolet top decisions must be made about replacing the following items:
padding, headliner, side cables, rear attachment cables and the little plastic caps at the rear corners of the top. Because you will be investing in labor you should consider replacing the headliner when doing the top if it is torn or if you believe it is too dirty.
The padding can often be re-used. This decision must be made upon examination of the old padding. Synthetic German horsehair padding is superior to foam rubber pad kits.
We also recommend all new cables with each top. Please select a rear attachment cable with the original hard plastic sheath. Cheap cables can result in damage to the top.
The little plastic rear corner caps can be added at any time. They hide the ends of the studs on the rear attachment cable.
We also offer a canvas version of this top. Canvas topping is used on most Mercedes, BMW, Porsche and late model Saab tops. It is not original, but it is the longest lasting (maximum wear rating) of all convertible fabrics.
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