Rag Top Gasket Deteriorated - Fix??

[StudioWizard]

Hey all

I have 2005 2.5i with a black top and there's a rubber seal/gasket in the seam that is completely deteriorated. I'm not sure if there's a fix for this as it appears it was possibly originally sewed into the fabric, but I can't tell for sure.

Some possible fixes could include leaving it alone, but making sure it fully weatherproofed. Another fix could be to apply caulk in the seams once it's been thoroughly cleaned. Or, maybe there's a replacement gasket? I haven't been able to find one online anywhere.

Any thoughts?

 

[BumpyZ4]

No fix that I'm aware of.

 

[Jas- USA]

I'm also unaware of a true fix. However, when you begin to have water leak issues, concern using "never wet" it might give you a few more years before you have to replace the top. Here's a link to never wet: https://www.amazon.com/Rust-Oleum-278146-NeverWet-11-Ounce-Outdoor/dp/B00KRHF8E4/ref=asc_df_B00KRHF8E4?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80607997944719&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4584207577079400&th=1

 

[Special Kay]

Firstly, I would speak to some local car upholsterers, and some convertible roof specialists in the area to see if it can be repaired. I'd weigh up the cost of the repair in comparison to a new roof, and then make a decision. This may be the car you want to keep for the long term, or just a bit of fun for the summer. Either way, weight up the pros and cons of both, and get a fuller picture on which to base your decision on. Good luck

 

[Rockhopper]

Is it leaking? If not I'd leave it alone until it does then swap the roof for a second hand one. They come up quite often for around £300. New ones cost more than the car would be worth!

 

[StudioWizard]

All good advice! It's not leaking at all.... so far anyway. And it looks really solid. This year has been one of the wettest years in many decades for Los Angeles. I suspect we'll be back to drought before too long and it'll not be a worry.

 

[enuff_zed]

Just note how the roof folds. That 'rain channel' is supposed to be all one piece and it helps ensure the roof folds correctly.
When it breaks you can sometimes find that the section of fabric beside it folds inwards instead of outwards. This effectively adds another layer of fabric and can be enough for the motor not to be able to pull the roof down flush.
Fold the roof halfway back then check out the section about halfway along the side. You may need to pop it outwards with your hand before you fold it completely down.

 

[StudioWizard]

Just note how the roof folds. That 'rain channel' is supposed to be all one piece and it helps ensure the roof folds correctly.
When it breaks you can sometimes find that the section of fabric beside it folds inwards instead of outwards. This effectively adds another layer of fabric and can be enough for the motor not to be able to pull the roof down flush.
Fold the roof halfway back then check out the section about halfway along the side. You may need to pop it outwards with your hand before you fold it completely down.

Couldn't I replace it with a similar plastic or rubber "gasket"? I could glue it in there probably. The original is literally flaking off and it appears it may have been sewn in, although I can't tell for sure.