Originally Posted by Kane
UPDATE:
Well, my top has been replaced under X31. I may be one of the first to score replacement under X31, but it looks really good.
The materials appear to be equal to OEM. Does any one know where the original tops were fabricated? Karmann? Chrysler? Germany? USA?
When you all have yours replaced, be sure to inspect your top with regard to final installation technique and correctness. Going out on a limb here, there may not be too many rag top specialists that are familiar with the Crossfire rail system.
The installation of my top turned out to be about 1/4" off center at the rear, which caused a tiny pucker just aft of the passenger side window. FAIL. I have a relationship with my installer, and the problem will be rectified pronto, even if it means partially removing and reinstalling the top.
But. DO NOT sign off on your top replacement until you are totally satisfied! We have absolutely ZERO leverage in this matter (withhold payment, etc.) with regard to final quality of materials and workmanship. So if you are not happy with the outcome in replacing your top, be prepared to hold your breath until you turn blue.
But at least be happy that the rear window won't fall out.
UPDATE TO THE UPDATE
Had a chance to look at the old OEM top and it was indeed made by Karmann, as are the new tops.
But be aware the the installation as farmed out by Chrysler to qualified technicians is heading for a snag. It takes at least
6 hours for a rag top specialist to remove and replace the old top. However, Chrysler is only going to reimburse the installer for
1.5 hours of labor, non-negotiable per the TSB. Therefore any responsible installer is going to say
no way they will do the work for what amounts to, per Chrysler,
$85 when the installer should be paid around
$300.
Just a heads up.
The good folks that installed my new top said that they will do no more Crossfires under X31.