Targa Tech, Wind noise and water leaks

The Porsche Targa top has been called the 8th Wonder of the World - though some claim the 8th Curse (that being wind noise). I have identified 15 causes of wind noise and water leaks.
 

1. Top worn out - Cupping of material in front and/or back. The sticking up of the top beading which creates an opening to catch air or water.
2. Only vinyl replaced - The two levels of reinforcement not being replaced which causes there to be too much material causing an air scoop.
3. Top 'un-square' -  When top is refinished or refurbished, they tend to get 'un-square' with gaps occurring when tops placed on the car. A fixture is needed during repair.
4. Top sits up in a corner - Wrong front gasket used too large, actually 964 seal. Correct seal not available since 1995 even though part # on bag is correct. I have correct seal in stock.
5. Top high in front - Top not pushed far enough to the back so beading touches the roll bar. Top needs to drop in slot in the front.
6. Front vertical pins - When removed during rebuild, tend mis-align and prevents top from dropping down into windshield slot. Loosen pins.
7. Side seals - After market side seals are too thick, too hard and to long preventing top from fitting. Even factory seals need slight modification. Also, side seals not adjusted correctly on the top when replaced.
8. Vinyl positioning - Vinyl not installed properly when replaced. Or American vinyl used in rebuild.
9. Inner reinforcement - Incorrect type of reinforcement and foam used.
10. Top not tight -  Top when rebuilt needs to be made tight so vinyl won’t lift.
11. Latches - both hook and roller wear so that they don’t hold or hold loosely. Replace latches.
12. Rear pins - Rear alignment pin too low or too high causing an incorrect fit at the front. Make correction.
13. Vent window - The vent window being too high or the door glass stop needing readjusted inside door.
14. Door issues - The door being misaligned due to an accident or replacement.
15. Incorrect top - There a total of 7 generations of Targa tops and for the most part, they are not interchangeable. They go on but they don’t fit perfectly.

No matter what year Targa you have, it's unique and desirable. Make sure you have the right top so it doesn't leak or fly off while you're driving down the road. If it does, don't worry, Porsche will sell you a new Targa Top for $15,000 (plus shipping). If that's out of your budget, I can help you out for less - possibly using your old top as a donor.

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