worked like a charm, first go round. Numerous open and closes executed flawlessly and all still snug as a bug. Washed it, including the top. No leaks at all. Just need to clean off the little excess spooge droppings.

thank you to all who provided valuable info. Thank you also to those who provided info on what a bad idea it was to do. THAT information helped me seriously re-think several approaches and ultimately to first go success.

p.s. I saw back a ways in the forum someone who mentioned a top replacement someone purchased where the window sat in a little pocket and came with a lifetime warranty. I would be VERY interested in hearing more about this. If this fails again, THAT is the direction to take. Any help in obtaining that information would be lovely.

Cheers. 😁