DIY Network

Convertible Top Replacement and Jeep Half-Top A Chrysler Sebring convertible gets a new lid, and a Jeep Wrangler gets a "half top" with fold-back sunroof. From "Weekend Mechanic" episode WKM-403

Bruce Bonebreak and guest expert Anthony Fleming replace the worn convertible top on a 2000 Chrysler Sebring.

Project 1: Chrysler's Sebring Convertible-Top Replacement

In this project, Weekend Mechanic host Bruce Bonebrake demonstrates how to replace the canvas top on a power convertible 2000 Chrysler Sebring, typical of vehicles needing top replacement.

Automotive upholsterer Anthony Fleming joins Bruce for this installation.

In a second project, Bruce demonstrates how to replace a top on a 1998 Jeep Wrangler by installing a popular "half-top" which includes a rear deck cover and fold-back sunroof.

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The tools used in this project, along with the original parts that were removed

Tools and materials:

In addition to standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, torque wrench, etc.), some of the specialty tools that will be needed for this project include:

air stapler
1/4 in or 5/16ths inch staples
staple cutter
needle nose pliers
awl
utility knife
air ratchet with 13mm socket and extension
screwdriver
contact adhesive

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection and follow proper safety precautions when working with power tools or pneumatic tools. Also wear eye protection any time you are working underneath a vehicle.

	Bruce removes the original top.
	Removing the top

Removing the Chrysler's Top

To begin this project, host Bruce Bonebrake and automotive upholsterer Anthony Fleming remove the old convertible top of the Chrysler Sebring and inspect the frame. Here are the basic steps:

Tip: It's always a good idea to take digital photos when dismantling parts. In that way, the photos can serve as reference later and during reassembly.

ImportantBe sure to keep track of all the parts and fasteners that you remove.

• Start by removing the window gaskets in the frame, which can be carefully pried out using a screwdriver and remove the screws of the header trim.

• Remove the gasket channel track and then remove the header handle while someone else works on the passenger side gaskets and channels.

• The rest of the header trim can now be removed, as well as the gasket channel.

• An awl helps pry up the convertible top fabric that's stapled to the front header. When this is replaced, we'll glue the new top to the header.

• With the top raised up, remove the rear gaskets and channel tracks.
  

  	Removing the torx-head screw
  	The original top has been removed.

• Loosen the torx screw that holds the tension cable and spring to the rear frame.

• The protective netting gets removed next, and you can thread the cable back through the sleeve of the old top.

• Cutters help to pry up the extrusions that hold the top to the bows. Then they can be pulled out.

• Continue pulling the extrusions from the bows and remove the side hold-down strap.

• It's easiest to simply cut the rest of the old top out.

• Remove the rear defroster wire, which will be connected to the new window. Once this is removed, the old top and window come off.

• After detaching the rear well carpet, you can access the tack strips that hold the convertible top in the back.

• The tack strip bolts are removed next.

• You can now remove the tack strips, which you can use for the new top.

• Take all the staples out of the rear tacking strip and save all the old pieces.
  
  
  

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  ALSO IN THIS EPISODE:
  	Convertible Top Replacement and Jeep Half-Top