1994 to 2004 Mustang Convertible Rear Window Step By Step Replacement Save Money $ $ $
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- Опубликовано: 15 сен 2024
- This video is a complete step by step guide to replacing the convertible rear window on a 1994-2004 Ford Mustang, although some people have used the video as a general guide to replace convertible rear windows on other makes & models.
PLEASE READ and Watch the entire video to make sure you are up to the task of replacing the rear window. Even if you watched someone else’s video for replacing an entire top that may have missed a few steps.
I tried to show every step needed to replace “just the rear window” and that is why the video is so long.
Items needed: **I have provided links for most of the items - (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.). **
**Vinyl Rear Window Replacement like this one on Amazon in 4 different colors - amzn.to/2TjxVag
(If you decide to do the whole job for the entire convertible top, which is NOT shown in the video, you can find that set up here with a plastic window - amzn.to/2QPSo4V
or this one with the glass window in black - amzn.to/2TrUXeW - or here in 3 other colors - amzn.to/2TiDaa2 )
When I did this video there were no replacements on Amazon. I bought mine from RockAuto.com. This link takes you to the options from RockAuto (NOT an affiliate link - www.rockauto.c... ).
**Staple gun (like this one - amzn.to/3a58xuM )- There are tack strips that you staple into, they are a hard plastic/ rubber-like material. I used a Stanley electric stapler, set to the highest setting, which is much easier to use considering how many staples you are going to use. You could use an air staple gun but the staples aren’t as wide as a normal staple gun.
**Staples (stainless preferred)- I used 3/8 inch staples ( amzn.to/2Thekrj ) when I stapled through 1 layer on most of the convertible top, but there are areas with multiple layers I had to staple through, so on the thicker layers I used 1/2 inch ( amzn.to/2ToPR3d )
**Magnetic Parts Tray for staples - amzn.to/2TlbgdK
**A smooth face hammer to hammer any staples down that don’t go all the way in - amzn.to/326wKvw
** Phillips screwdriver - amzn.to/334xz9z
** Flat head screwdriver - amzn.to/34diu5A
** Torx T-20 screwdriver - amzn.to/2t3tTrX or T-20 socket - amzn.to/30i663z or socket set - amzn.to/381lp3h
**1/4" drive 13mm deep well 12 point socket - amzn.to/36XdFPS or a 13mm flexible box ratchet wrench - amzn.to/2uOnfGB
** Needle nose pliers, anything like these - amzn.to/30he0u5
** Scissors
** Clamps - amzn.to/3a78v5O
** Marker - amzn.to/389SCtz
** Razor - amzn.to/2TrWMIO
** Patience!! - At no time do you want to rush this
This video is just replacing the rear window. The tracing of the old window pattern to the new window is crucial that the new window will be the same exact size as the old window and all cuts are smooth, not jagged to prevent tearing.
The cuts around the bottom edge on the new window should be aligned with the old window to allow the studs to easily fit through the metal retaining strip. Size isn’t as crucial if replacing the entire convertible top. The biggest thing is to make sure that you have the center marked on the top Bow to align with the center mark on the top of the window. And to make sure the bottom of the window has it’s center marked to line up with the center hole on the metal retaining strip.
The Metal retaining strip has, at most, a 1/8 of an inch of side to side movement, which is basically nothing. If you don’t have your centers aligned you are going to get a wrinkle in the back window vinyl. Follow along in the video and I can’t emphasize this enough - take your time!!!
Plan to take a whole day (at least 8 hours) or break it up into a few days and park your Mustang in a garage to keep the rain out till your done.
Sorry for the sound quality, the farther I am from the camera the quieter I got. Thank you to my wife and oldest daughter for helping to film.
I hope this video helped you decide whether or not you wanted to tackle this project. Like, Share and Subscribe because you never know what I’m going to do next.
This is the single best "how to" video I've ever used. Perfect step-by-step directions. I fixed my window yesterday. I would have never even attempted it without your video. Thanks so much for posting this.
I'm glad I could help and thank you for the comment.
Don't be concerned over the dislikes. I have replaced the White top on my Mustang three times in 16 years. I live in Florida,and I've viewed all the free video's on the internet by now. Yours is one of the very best. Never take it down
So, in preparation for this task, I've watched your video 6 total times beginning to end. I just now completed my own replacement, and i did not get hung up once during the process. Thanks to you! I cannot thank you enough! You saved me a ton of time and money. Again, thank you very much for making this video!
I'm glad my video helped. Congratulations on a job well done! Thank you for your comment. 😊👍
Previous owner of my car (03) just slapped the back end of the top on without care. It looked awful, so I've been trying to find videos demonstrating the process of removing the rear of the top and yours is the only one that had every single step.
Every time I got stuck, I came back to this video and you helped me every single time. It looks awesome now, and I honestly couldn't have done it without you.
I'm glad my video helped. Thank you for the comment.
Brandon I need to let you know that this video is very well appreciated by me and my wife. Her's is a 98 and needs to have the rear window replaced. I will begin the job today, i have a donor 03 vert that's is being stripped to keep mines (96 GT coupe) and her V6 alive.
This is the only video I have found that goes into any sort of detail on doing this job on these cars and once again thank you for taking the time to document the job steps. A DIYer always appreciates another one lending a hand.
And a special thanks to your wife on the good camera work and lending a hand. I thought she was great.
Anyways I start working on this today and being that I do everything myself I was'nt going to back out of this, but thanks to your video I am now informed on what lies ahead( I did'nt even know these things had staples lol) but i went ahead and bought myself a staple gun and the 12 point 13mm socket. I can't stop saying thanks i'll leave a comment when the work is done.
I tackled this project yesterday. Wouldn't have been able to it without this video. Very descriptive and informative. It was for a 2003 Toyota Solara and the process was pretty much the same. And yes dedicate a whole day to get it done. Thanks!!
Antonio Saliceti thank you for the comment and I'm glad my video helped you tackle your convertible top. God job! 👍
This is a great video. I'm in the middle of helping a friend put a replacement rear window in his '88 GT convertible. This video isn't an exact match for how his car is set up but it was well worth watching. Very nicely done. I get the feeling you're a great guy to hang out with, and I'd have you work on my car any day. Take care and thanks for posting this.
Thank you for the comment it is nice of you to say. Good luck on your friends 88 GT. Stay tuned I have more videos to post soon.
Thanks for making this video I was able to replace mine and saved $1000 that I was quoted for a shop to do it!
I'm glad my video helped. Good Job on replacing your top, and thank you for the comment.
Thank you to You and your wonderful wife for this amazing and so very helpful video. I have no choice but to tackle this job and watching your video has given the knowledge I need to get the job done. Thank you both .
The wife here 😊 Thank you for the thoughtful comment! Since I'm "behind the scenes", it's extra nice when someone notices the effort we both put into these videos 😁 Good luck with the project and thanks for the comment ❤
Haha 🤣 1st time my wife beats me to the comments. Take your time and you'll get it done. I'm glad we could help and thank you for the nice comment 😁❤👍
One thing to remember when buying a new convertible top for your mustang. Depending on the year of the car, there may be 2 types of tops: the standard convertible top and the higher quality Cobra model top. Having owned both models, I am here to tell you that the Cobra top material is far superior to the standard top and is well worth the extra money if you want a quality top that looks and feels great and will last longer too.
Great video, great audio and shot angles as well as explanations. Blow off the negative feedback, you killed it :)
I need to undertake this project myself very soon. Thanks for the great how to video. It is much appreciated, and a HUGE help!
This is a nice step by step video! 😊 I bought a used top with the frame for $250 dollars. The only problem with mine was the back window was leaking like yours. I will be watching your other videos. And your camera man. I meant camera woman did a great job also.
Ha ha. I'm glad my video helped. Thank you for the comment.
7 years later and you’re still helping out us all with our crapped out mustangs lol
Thank god for you, I just installed my styling bar and was soo afraid I'd have to take it all right back off. After seeing your trim screw trick I'm hoping I can pull it off. Thanks man!
Kernell Sanders Good luck and thank you for the comment.
This was incredibly helpful! Thank you for posting. I replaced the entire top (cover and glass) on an 04 mustang, I replaced the two-part top, however I suggest buying and installing the one-piece KEE replacement. Easier and it simplifies the system overall.
DREW Daniels you are right.I did mine myself whith the Cj pony's vidéo.it was easy with the one-pièce KEE top.
thanks to your video, I was successful in installing the rear window on my mustang. Such job helped me to understand the task at hand. Yes, it is a bit tedious but not that difficult. My best from Houston Texas.
That's awesome! I'm glad I could help. Thank you for the comment.
Excellent Video Zero Fuel Required 👍 With your help and guidance, My housemate and I were able to tackle this job. Thanks again!
That's great to hear. I'm glad I could help. Thanks for the comment.
exceptionally good audio. This video is helpful.
The two interior side pieces next to the passenger seats must be removed in order to properly access two of the three screws holding on the side molding. The rear-most molding screw can be accessed when the top is relaxed, but the two forward screws are accessible through cutouts that are available when the interior trim is removed.
They are phillips head screws.
(The trim pieces are removed by removing three plastic fasteners; two accessible when the rear seatback is removed and one is at the top of the convertible roof void (from the back seat, look down into the hole the frame retracts into, there is a nylon fastener right at the top). Also, remove the door jam and pop the piece towards the front.
331SVTCobra thank you for the comment.
I recently got me an 04 and I’m only 16 (not much experience) This was extremely helpful, thank you!
I'm glad I could help, thank you for the comment.
Thanks so much with your help i got it done. My 2003 mustang had small differences but your video put me over the hump.
I'm glad I could help, thank you for the comment.
Just replacing the window on my 1997 Toyota Celica GT...thanks for this video!!
All convertibles are very similar. I'm glad my video helped out. Thank you for the comment.
Thank you for this! Very in depth and organized! I will recommend you!
Thank you I have a 99 I've been rebuilding, very helpful video.
Great Video, Great Job. Thanks a ton for making this! This is what make RUclips worth it.
Just did my top! Took the full 4 hours! Had some help with the girlfriend! The staple removal definitely took the longest, The job wasn't perfect, but I'd still give it an A- (Not 100% tight). But it doesn't leak! Thanks for the detailed help, Zero Fuel Required!
James Van Volkenburgh that's cool. It definitely helps to make the job go faster if you have help. I'm glad I could help. thanks for the comment, if you haven't already, like, share and subscribe.
James Van Volkenburgh also you could've paid a shop big money to do your top and it wouldn't be perfect either. It's an intimidating job that anyone can do if you have patience. You get an A+ for effort.
Well done, I replaced mine based with this video and it turned out well. I'd emphasis the detachment of the side wires to allow the curling back of the outer top (tricky). The last stapling of the side outer flap used the existing staple pattern to reattach the side short rails. I went BTW from a glass to a vinyl type, it didn't come with the 1.5" straps under the outer cover and apparently didn't need them, as it works fine. Electric stapler is probably necessary given the number needed. THX a great guide for a first time project.
Mick Snyder I'm glad my video helped, thank you for your comment.
Thanks, man! This is the only video I could find on this!
People are in denial their water leak is the rear window . I can't blame them , this looks like a pain in the ass . I think I will keep just mine in the garage when it rains alot now .
GREAT VIDEO !!! Thanks for your efforts. I tackled mine because of your video and all turned out well.
Erwin Mehlig That's Awesome. I'm glad I could help.
Hey ZeroFuel.. I"ve seen your posts in AllFordMustangs Forums. You have good information and insights to share. Thank you. I have a 2001 Base Mustang Convertible with a shattered back window and a raggedy top. I'm replacing the everything. Although I like the glass window with defroster, I think I'm going to go with the "one piece sailcloth top with vinyl rear window just for the sake of ease of installation and cost. I appreciate your efforts to help schmucks like me. See ya in AllFordMustang Land.
Dennis Bennett thanks for the comment and good luck on your project.
This is a very helpful video thank you so much!! I hope this works rather then having too pay $1200 too get this "proffessionally" installed
+Gio Gomez Good Luck and take your time.
I need a whole top but as much work goes into the installation I don't want one that's going to rot or tear in a few years, so what would be a good quality top so I don't waste time and money? Thanks for the detailed instructions in this vid, its greatly appreciated!
Great video. I need to do this job. Was kind of wondering if I could do it myself. Watching this a time or two, I just might try it. Thanks.
Clay Johnson this is a job anyone can do. Take your time, measure twice and good luck. Thanks for the comment.
My wife and I Thank you Jose for your comment. When got my mustang the passenger side tension cable was broken, the cable keeps the side of the convertible top behind the quarter window from flapping in the wind. The back seat, panel and other stuff has to come out to get the bottom of the cable. Replacing the cable is a job in itself. I paid $30 for a new one and went to install only to find out the new cable was way too long. I called the place I got it and they said it was the only one for my car. I ended up cutting the new one in half and cable clamping it to old broken one at the right length. I said in the video several times don't disconnect them unless you absolutely have to because the whole back seat,panel, speakers and metal plate has to come out and it still is a pain in the ass to get to the bottom of the cable. Anyone can do this if you take your time, measure multiple times before you cut anything and make sure you align center on the window. If you have any questions just ask and Good luck :-)
Your audio is not too good.but the video is great! Keep up the good work and I'LL keep using your ideas. Thank you.
This video was one of my first videos and it was a RUclips video learning experience for me. The entire video was filmed with a Samsung Galaxy cell phone and if I was 10 ft from it the sound was not so great. So I learned and Even videos I make today. I am still learning what to do and not to do to make better quality videos. I'm still making videos every week, I've got 3 going through editing now and many more to come. I'm glad I could help. Thank you for the comment 😁👍
Already showed me I only need the back glass , not the entire top too . I’ll update later. Thank you
YOU DA MAN ,MAN .I never realized the top and the window were two completely separate items . What kind of person would put a new top on with out replacing the rear window assy .It looks like a major job if you do it AFTERWARDS , a real pain in the ass. This is not a job for that spray sealer (they say will stop Niagara Falls) that they advertise on TV HUH ? Thanks.Wanna do another one chief ?
Ha ha thanks for the laugh. They aren't difficult to do. They are just time consuming. I have many projects on the back burner. I don't really have time for another one. Lol. Thanks for the comment. 😉👍
I'd like to know how I got a Dislike on this video? The only person who would Dislike this video would be someone who does this for a living. I am cutting into their business by showing everyone, that anyone could replace their own back window with some time and patience. There isn't anyone else on youtube showing how to properly replace a convertible window, let alone the entire convertible top. If there is something about this video that you dislike, comment instead. Maybe I can help with the problem you are having. Please like if it helps you decide to tackle it yourself or appreciate that your money is well spent having a qualified shop do it instead.
+Zero Fuel Required relax dude..youtube is full of assholes who have nothing else better to do except be negative towards others
Thanks Bob I know there's always one nut trying to throw a wrench in the works.
+bob62065 Thats so true they will negative the video just to see if they can get a rise out of you or that fact its a mustang. ( I thumbs upped )
Zero Fuel Required, if the top shops were honest and didn't try to sell us the whole top when it's not needed we wouldn't be searching for this kind of help. I was told quote "anyone who tells you, you can replace just the back glass section is a liar" anyways I appreciate your help on this video and will be doing this soon.
Steven Fowler thank you for the comment, take your time and wish you luck on your repair.
Thank you for the video! Got mine done! Awesome instructions sir!
I'm glad I could help. Thank you for the comment.
Take your time, devote a whole day to this. I replaced mine a few hours a day, over a 3 day period. Find your center marks on the car and the new window because there isn't much room for error it will make the vinyl above and below the window ripple if it isn't aligned. Use stainless staples if you can find them, regular steel staples last a long time but they do rustand in a location that gets wet I'd rather have stainless. The hardest part of installing a convertible top is the rear window and not every top has to be replaced but rear windows take a beating. I found rockauto.com had the best deal on the correct rear windows for mustangs. it might take a day or so to respond, but if you have any questions hit me up. Good Luck.
Great job don’t know if I got the patience but I might try 91 Mustang
Just take your time.
thanks for the video its the only one I could find great job keep it up
Thanks Mark. It was filmed with my Galaxy S5 in HD and you can thank my wife on shot angles lol.
Thank you. Very comprehensive video. This is extremely helpful.
You made it look so easy wow great job
Thank you for the comment 😊
@@ZeroFuelRequired my friend your work couldn't have been explained any better this the best eyes on training I've ever seen with so much details
@@diangelochilds6614 I try to do that with all my videos. They are made for that one person that wants to do it themselves and do it right the first time. Even if they've never picked up a wrench before. Thank you for your comment.
I appreciate the video, definitely makes me think I can tackle mine now. Thanks
I'm glad I could help and good luck. Thank you for the comment.
Thanks for this! Love the details, very helpful!
This helped me a great deal however I would like to make a few notes:
on my 1995 the nuts along the bottom of the curtain that are plastic/nylon and secure the curtain the the car are 14mm not 13mm. Also on the 1995 there are three screws on the trim around the outside of the top and its metal. All and all a great how to just wanted to add the notes in there for ya.
Excellent video thank you very much
Thank you for the comment.
great video man, I have to thank you because my rear window was falling apart and I think it is time to replace it. My question here is: what's the size of the staples you used in this video? Thanks in advance!
Also, tell your wife she did an awesome job recording!
I used 3/8 inch staples when I stapling through 1 layer on most of the convertible top, but there are areas with multiple layers I had to staple through, so in the thicker layers i used 1/2 inch. Try to use the stainless steel staples if you can find them. If you can"t the regular steel last a long time. either way. Good luck.
Thanks!
Great videos my guy
Thank you for the comment.
"Relax, I can fix it..." whenever I hear those words I immediately begin to tense up especially if I was relaxed already and the guy is telling me to relax...
Thanks for the video 👍 I'm looking to change the whole top on mine. I
have ordered a new one with a new window and I can't find any video instructions how to replace it😫
Replacing a convertible top is time consuming but anyone can do it. There really aren't any special tool. Screwdrivers, Metric sockets and wrenches(I mention in the video) , decent staple gun or power staple gun like I use in the video. A smooth face hammer to hammer any staples down that don't go all the way in(I use hammer in video) to replace the entire top, you will have to remove the back seat and rear interior panels to get to the tension cable that runs inside the convertible top along the rear quarter windows(it keeps it tight there otherwise it would flap while diving Down the road). Take pictures as you take it apart to make it easier to remember how it goes back together. With the rear interior panels out. Open the top and take off the front edge weather strip. Then remove the staples in the canvas on front edge, work your way from the front to the rear. Release both side tension cables. Follow my video to take the rest apart. Use the old top to lightly trace (with something that will wash off)on the new top canvas to get it close. Clamp it together out of the car to test fit to rear window. Work your way from the rear toward the front. Staple window canvas to rear strips(test fit with top almost closed) attach main top to rear strips and install strips(not fully tight) fold canvas to over rear of car and staple canvas window to rear bow. Pull top toward front, install tension cables, leave top open 2 inches, stretch canvas around( keeping open 2 inches, make sure it's centered & staple it) install weather strip. You should have to pull hard to get top to close stretching canvas. Over time it will get easier to open and close. Stretching it good should take out some of the wrinkles. I am missing a few steps here with interior of the top. Installing the rear window area of the convertible top is the hardest part. The rest of the main top will go easy. It's been a while since I've done the a convertible top and I'll help you were I can. Good luck.
@@ZeroFuelRequired wow, thank you, much appreciated , god bless 🙏💪🏻
@@Zabestinzawest if you look at the video description I've included links to everything that I used to install the rear window. Take your time and you'll get it done. Good luck & God Bless 😉👍
Hey Brandon I used 3/8 inch staples when I stapling through 1 layer on most of the convertible top, but there are areas with multiple layers I had to staple through, so in the thicker layers i used 1/2 inch. Thanks for the question.
just by watching 10 mins in i know im mot bout to do this myself
el digge sometimes that's half the battle knowing your capabilities. I took my time and repaired my top a few hours each day, for 3 days. thanks for the comment.
I hear u im goin to pick a part today to start my journey thanks for the vid!!!
What are the size of the staples you used?
Thanks I'm going to try it today, this really helps.
How did you make out?
Great video! What brand is the glass from? KEE Auto? OPR? from where did you buy it? Stayfast cloth or sailcloth material?
Im about to get a new conv. myself so ill watch this great video!
While I do appreciate this video, I had a very difficult time watching you work with the classic Mustang as a work bench! It made my skin crawl!
lol. well the Truth of This 66 V8 mustang workbench in the video I traded even up for a 79 corvette I restored. I wouldn't normally do that on one of my other 66 mustangs, I'd be to afraid to scratch the paint. On a restoration I use only DuPont ChromaBase/clear urethane paint. it is like iron. The 66 mustang in the video, previous owner had it painted at Maaco "mistako". It looks good at 10 feet but any closer it is absolute crap, I can't even begin to explain how bad, so I'll just keep it at...... it look good at 10. I plan to strip the paint, redo all the body work on it and properly paint it. When I do it will never be a workbench again. Thanks for the comment.
I really need to do this project. Thanks for the video.
Read the comments if you haven't, I've given information that is helpful to people's questions to help them along and you too. Good luck.
We just got one hell of a hail storm come through and ripped my soft top and broke out the vinyl window
great video man, thanks for sharing
We installed a convertible top and back window, we are having a problem with the bar dropping the back window. We did it exact everything is how it should be, but the back window wont drop in if you understand what I'm saying? it simply wont fold in, if you have any suggestion asap that would be great. The bar to the back window wont drop because the window doesn't fold in. So lmk what you might think is the problem if you have any clue we are stumped!
The convertible top material new may not be very flexible especially when cool or cold. If wasn't out in the sun before you tried opening it. Try putting your car out in the sun for an hour to warm it before your try. Then when you are ready open it slowly and with your hands push the window inward. It should start to go. It might take 20 or 30 times opening and closing for the material to start to take a memory so it will drop in place properly without any assistance when you open it. I hope this helps. Let me know how you make out.
my new window came in yesterday,might start on it tomorrow,,I was wondering,,what size and length of staples should I use,,?
That's great. If you read the description on the video itself. I write about everything I use to get the job done. I write about the staples 3/8 when stapling through one layer and 1/2 when stapling through multiple layers. Stainless staples if you can find them. Take a minute and read the description it's helpful. Good luck.
@@ZeroFuelRequired thank you so much for answering,, I must have missed the staple size part,, I think tomorrow is the day,,lol
@@davejohnson3271 no problem. Take your time , you'll get it done, it's easy, it's just time consuming. Good luck
Thank you sir meister
Wow where do I find a woman that easy to work with and be so calm cool and collect, . I'm doing a 1998 z28 Camaro try to just glue window with black 5200. Is it possible ?
Mary Surniak I'm not familiar with black 5200. I looked it up, It's a urethane and it should work. Make sure you clean the glass really well with Acetone (probably the best thing) don't drip it on your car anywhere protect your car. It will remove any residue. While gluing it, make sure it doesn't move at all until it's cured. Take your time. Hope it works for you. Thanks for the comment.
What size is the 12 point socket for the tack bar? Also what size staples did you use? Thanks for the video!
It's a 13mm deep well socket and I used stainless 3/8 and 1/2 staples. If you read my video description there more info and I listed Everthing that I used in the video and links to purchase them if you want. I hope this helps and thanks for the question.
@@ZeroFuelRequired oops I should have checked the description! Thank you! This video has been very helpful.
@@BenFoilHat no worries. I'm glad my video is a help for you 😉👍
I just bought a 98 GT vert and need to replace the top. It came with the new top, I just need to do it. I'm terrified. I'm really handy but this looks horribly frustrating.
The worst thing is it's time consuming. Anybody can do it. Take pictures of everything when you take it apart so you don't forget how it goes back together. Take your time you'll be fine and good luck.
I know this is three years old but did you ever do a video on replacing the main portion of the convertible top? I"m going to be doing this in a couple months and really don't want to have to pay anymore than for the top itself. Besides, I never trust the technicians in these shops. You never know when you're getting a guy in training.
No I haven't replaced my convertible top, but I've been thinking about doing it because one of my wife's cats put a nice size claw mark in my top. On my mustang someone replaced the top and not the rear window (To save money) long before I got it. I replaced the rear window because it started leaking (bad and I didn't want to rot my floors or get mildew). It's actually easier to replace both at the same time. I would recommend to Take pictures of everything as it comes apart(so you can remember how it goes back together). You must take the rear seat and inner interior quarter panels out to get to everything, it will make life easier. Once everything is apart. Lay new convertible top and window in the sun for a day to take the wrinkles out of them. Then Transfer old window pattern like I do in the video to the new window to get it close while being installed and the same goes for the old top to transfer the pattern to the new top the best you can. Once the window is installed, detach the rear retaining strips from the car and on the new convertible top attach it to the top bow like I do at 22:28 in the video(make sure it's centered. Then stretch it down and attach it in the rear like at 23:54. Install the side curtain cables. I'm probably missing a few things here, re-install the rear retaining strips and stretch the top to the front. Center the new top in the front, open the convertible 4 or 5 inches above the windshield and stretch the new top matetial around then staple it in place, this is so when you close it the top stretches to take out any slack or left over wrinkles. It might take 2 people to pull down on it to get it to latch the first couple of times. Leave it closed in hot sun for a few days and Over time it will become easier to latch close. Anyone can do this, it's time consuming but worth the effort. I hope this explanation helps, thanks for the question and good luck
People ask questions and I answer everyone. Take a few minutes and read through the questions that I have answered they might help too. The answer I gave above, I actually copied most of it from a response I wrote to someone else asking the same question.
Is it okay that mine like yours is not sealed with the top layer but it is sealed with the bottom all around?
Yes it should be fine, any water that gets past the edge that's bolted to the body drips in the water channel that runs out on to the ground in front of the rear wheels. 😉👍
ill hire you to do my top on my 1998 ford mustang GT conv nice job
Thanks for the offer. I've already have enough projects lol.
P.B. Theriver I searched around for the most reasonable priced. I ended up buying my rear window from Rockauto.com it is very nice material, original texture, very easy to find on their site. You can buy the convertible top from them too. In my opinion it is identical in texture, color, strength and durability as the original convertible top from Ford. It should have just as long of a life as the original from Ford if you take care of it.
do you have to replace the top first and then the window or can you just replace the top AND window BOTH at the same time?
Chippy The Chipmunk on my mustang someone replaced the top and not the rear window (To save money) long before I got it. I replaced the rear window because it started leaking. It's actually easier to replace both at the same time. Take pictures of everything as it comes apart(so you can remember how it goes back together). Once everything is apart. Lay new convertible top and window in the sun for a day to take the wrinkles out of them. Then Transfer old window pattern like I do in the video to the new window to get it close while being installed and the same goes for the old top to transfer the pattern to the new top the best you can. Once the window is installed, detach the rear retaining strips from the car and on the new convertible top attach it to the top bow like I do at 22:28 in the video(make sure it's centered. Then stretch it down and attach it in the rear like at 23:54. Install the side curtain cables. I'm probably missing a few things here, re-install the rear retaining strips and stretch the top to the front. Center the new top in the front, open the convertible 4 or 5 inches above the windshield and stretch the new top matetial around then staple it in place, this is so when you close it the top stretches to take out any slack or left over wrinkles. It might take 2 people to pull down on it to get it to latch the first couple of times. Leave it closed in hot sun for a few days and Over time it will become easier to latch close. Anyone can do this, it's time consuming but worth the effort. I hope this explanation helps, thanks for the question and good luck.
great video, I learned a lot, but I still need to find one that shows how to fully replace the top as well. do you have a video of you replacing the top, or do you know of one you would recommend?
I don't know what video would be good for replacing an entire Top. I didn't have to do mine, i just had a leaking rear window. Take the top apart from front to rear. take pictures as reference of anything you remove, so when you put it back together you know what it was like. to install follow my video for the back window and keep it centered working your way from the back to the front of the car. You'll stretch it around the front, so the top is tight for reference and you want to stretch another inch. Open the top, lift it up off the windshield pillar about 5 inches and stretch the top about an inch making the material tighter keeping it centered attach it from the center outward trying to avoid ripples. Once all attached pull down on top to latch it to the windshield pillar and it will stretch your top nice and tight. Good luck.
u missed about 4 screws on the trim.. and what size are the plastic covered bolts on the back rail
Do you know what would be a good replacement for the black nuts for the rear metal strip that requirethe 13 mm wrench? Just bought a convertible and im missing nuts but the also put that piece in wrong
nice work bench.
PJ Grimm thanks. I use what I've got lol.
Tackling this project this month. I know I'm going to fuck something up.
Btw 2 days it took me but what i expected
That's great 👍.
Do u need a specific stapler
Does this also work with an 06 mustang and also do you know where to get the rear window online?
It's very similar. I posted links for everything used in the video inclination the rear window. If you go through the links to Amazon you should be able to find the replacement on Amazon. Thanks for the question.
where did you get the window with the fabric on it?
Links for the rear window and everything I used in the video are in the video description. Hope this helps thanks for the question.
I'm no expert but as much as I love my car I'm pretty confident I can get this done by watching this video, I just can't see paying $500 just for labor, I was Quoted at $700+tax..that's for the glass and labor and 5 year warranty
Good job
I’ve been wanting to replace my whole top I’ve watched the video & I have some questions! Do you think you can tell me what tools I’ll need for the job??
Rebecca Saldana it's time consuming but anyone can do it. There really aren't any special tool. Screwdrivers, Metric sockets and wrenches(I mention in the video) , decent staple gun or power staple gun like I use in the video. A smooth face hammer to hammer any staples down that don't go all the way in(I use hammer in video) if you are replacing the entire top, you will have to remove the back seat and rear interior panels to get to the tension cable that runs inside the convertible top along the rear quarter windows(it keeps it tight there otherwise it would flap while diving Down the road). Take pictures as you take it apart to remember how it goes back together. With the rear interior panels out. Open the top and take off the front edge weather strip. Then remove the staples in the canvas on front edge, work your way from the front to the rear. Release both side tension cables. Follow my video to take the rest apart. Use the old top to lightly trace (with something that will wash off)on the new top canvas to get it close. Clamp it together out of the car to test fit to rear window. Work your way from the rear toward the front. Staple window canvas to rear strips(test fit with top almost closed) attach main top to rear strips and install strips(not fully tight) fold canvas to over rear of car and staple canvas window to rear bow. Pull top toward front, install tension cables, leave top open a 2 inches, stretch canvas around( keeping open 2 inches, make sure it's centered & staple it) install weather strip. You should have to pull hard to get top to close stretching canvas. Over time it will get easier to open and close. Stretching it good should take out some of the wrinkles. I am missing a few steps here with interior of the top. It's been a while since I've done the a convertible top and I'm help you were I can. Good luck.
I'm about to replace the rear window on my 2001 Ford Mustang I was watching your video and I would like to know about the line where the manufacturer mark is that the top of the metal bracket
Are you asking about manufacture line on the new window material in relation to the old window?
what about the one piece top and window? good or bad?
I'm not sure how I feel about it and I've never installed one. I posted a link because It's a cheaper option, but you can't really tint the window and there's no defrost. Mustangs never came one piece. They only came window and top separate.
This a good video, I'm planning to change the top and rear window myself but am having some doubts and how to do it but do you think by transfering the rear measurements (where it gets cut and stapled) from both top and window to the new one would it make a little easier? Meaning putting the old one in top of the new one, like you did with the window before cutting it.
Thank you
Felix.
I think I understand what you are asking. By laying the old top on the new one and the rear window on the new to transfer the measurements(use something to mark the top that will wash off) would be easier than just winging it, especially doing your first convertible top. Doing it this way will help you get very close to the way it was. You're going to have to take the back seat and panels out to do it properly mainly because you're going to have to disconnect the cables that go down in the quarter panel. When you take it apart take photos as you go to help you when you are going to put it all back together. It really helps. As you install you work from the back towards the front as I explain in the video. Bolt the back rear retaining strip in before you finish stapling the front. When attaching it in the front you'll attach/staple it an inch shorter so it will stretch it as you close the top and latch it. Closing it might be difficult the first time needing a person on each side to latch it. It seems daunting but anyone can do this if they take their time. I hope this helps and good luck.
Zero Fuel Required
Thank you very much for your advise the photos will help too.
I will wait till the weather gets better to do it (don't have a garage lol)
I will follow your advise and will let you know how it came out. Thank you again and be well.
What kind of staple gun u use and staple
If you look in the video description all the information for what products I used are listed, staples, staple gun etc etc. Thanks for the question.
Thank you helped alot
I'm glad I could help. Thanks for the comment.
Your welcome , I have a 98 I’m trying to fix up , how difficult is it to install a new top? Question the top closes and is water tight but the framing for the top doesn’t sit flat at the bend above the window in the fight joint window closes in all but sometimes the window flats out any idea what’s up
Do you recommend putting a product on it to make it look darker and clean to protect.
Matthew Busch a convertible top cleaner can't hurt, just don't get it on your windshield it could be smear making it hard to see with your wipers On. On lighter color soft tops acid rain will make dark streaks that only cleaners will remove. Something to protect against acid rain and against UV rays is also good especially if your mustang is always out in the sun. But a good quality convertible Soft top should last at least 15 years or more. Maybe in the upwards of 20 years if taken care of. But who keeps a car that long to worry about that and if you do keep it that long you've probably got it in a garage. Convertible tops taken care of and clean look pretty, which in turn keep your mustang looking pretty. Not everyone has time to make their cars like show cars. Sometimes there's more important things in life than keeping your car clean. Like taking the family out for a cruise on a beautiful day. But the other side If you've got a hot date, even with it is a hot date your with your wife, clean your car make them both feel special. Do what works for you. Thank you for the comment. Like, Share and Subscribe because you never know what I might do next.
You have to use stainless staples or it will fail prematurely
When i orginally posted this video i have listed in the description stainless staples preferred. Thank you for your comment.
I need some help they replaced my top about 10 years ago. Its garage kept and I only put 3,000 miles a year on the vehicle. The top still looks brand new but i noticed it leaking. When I followed your steps and thanks for this video by the way. I took off the metal bracket holding the glass to the trunk area. There looks like there is a rubber seal that attaches to the metal of the trunk area. and then the top attaches to that. Do you know if they sell a new rubber seal for that. I don't think its bad rubber but the seal isn't sticking anymore to the metal of the car its pealing up allowing water to get in. I have no tears at all on my top. EDIT you can see what im talking about at 17:30 of the video if you pause it at that spot its the place rubber gasket that is attached to the body of the car.
To the best of my knowledge they don't make a seal for where the top attaches to the body. They rely on fresh new vinyl top making a seal to the body and the channel underneath guiding any water out of the car. The rubber strips stapled in the rear corners are more for protection of the corners from chafing, not water. First make sure there isn't any holes or rust in the channel that runs under the convertible top body mounting area, if there are any holes that's how water is getting in. if it's clean then the other thing you can do is apply a bead of Silicon between the top and the body. Also make sure your back window curtains that wrap around toward the quarter windows don't have any slack in them were it could allow water to drip somewhere higher from the curtains missing the channel that guides the water out of the car. Water finds a way like dripping through spider webs. Climb inside your car with the top up and have someone on the outside with a hose slowly running water onto the top to try to pin point where it's leaking from. Good luck let me know how you make out.
Well I guess the people who installed the top to the vehicle put some kind of seal back there . I called ford they have a part number for it but stopped making it. I found one online the last one ever but its located in Italy and isnt cheap at all plus the shipping. So what i ended up doing was taking some liquid nails for rubber and re sticking what was pealing up off the body of the car and re glued it. Then i took Black RTV silicon and rubbed a smmall layer over the weatherstripp. I let it dry added another one did that 4 times. After re installing everything it doesn't leak now at all. even took it to a drive thru auto wash and still not leaking.
Great job. Thanks.
Thanks Kevin
Thanks for the Vid, this I will look forward to doing on my 2000 V6 mustang. this will add value to the car and sentiment for doing it. how do you feel about the Hard convertible tops theyre selling online? I found a place in Penn. that does this but I live in Ca. Soft top for most likely. any recommendations where I should purchase? I also noticed the sell the soft top with the rear window, what would stop me from using my old rear heated window? thank you again.
Matthew Busch I personally don't like them or how the hard top convertible looks on the mustang but that's just my preference. They aren't cheap and your mustang will get broken into just as fast, the hard top won't slow a thief down. Even though you might pay a lot for a hard top convertible, they won't really add resale value because it may not turn off all, but it will turn off some interested buyers that may not like it like me. If you were planning to keep the mustang forever and you loved the hard top convertibles go for it because the expense would justify over the long run. If your planning to sell your mustang next year, just repair the original and save a ton of money. If your replacing your Soft top for one reason or another, your rear window vinyl folds every time you put your to down so it is probably in just as bad of condition as that main soft top. The rear window usually leak because they develop cracks in the vinyl where you can't see until you remove the main soft top. Over time the adhesive that seals the rear window to the vinyl often goes bad and starts to separate. When it does water can leak in and just a small drip can make a mess. The old window will be a different color than the new soft top because sun fading it. I recommend don't reuse the old window, you can get an exact replacement. Rockauto.com is where I purchased the correct heated window for my mustang with the proper vinyl texture. You can get the correct window and soft top with the correct texture from them. It will take a little longer than a week to get and they are a great company to deal with for any kind of auto parts for your car. Good luck when you replace your Top and if you have any questions ask or read the comments because others may have asked as question you might ask and I have answered everyone. Thank you for your comment. Like, Share and Subscribe because you never know what I might do next.
I noticed that you directed someone to rockauto.com. I honestly don't know much about cars, but I broke my back window and have been researching for parts and on how to fix it. One place wanted to charge me over $2000! Anyway, my question is, how do you know which rear window on the rockauto site is the right one for your car?
+Zero Fuel Required by the way it is a 2000 Ford Mustang with a black top. It has rear defrost.
+imnerdy40 Well, there are 2 windows Plastic and Glass. for your year it appears the glass only comes tinted. there are 3 different types of convertible top materials that can be bought with either a plastic window or a glass window. The Materials are Stayfast which is a highend "cloth" like convertible material, Sailcloth is a vinyl material to simulate cloth and Texture pinpoint is a vinyl material. So you first would have to figure out what your convertible top is Cloth, cloth that is actually vinyl or just a vinyl top, on Rockauto when looking at convertible windows to purchase in the description there is the word "INFO" click on that and it will bring up more information and pictures of the materials and colors that should help you identify what your top material is. Once you've got your material identified then pick glass or plastic window which you obviously have glass because you said you have defrost. Before you buy you should email or call them to verify they have defrost on the glass window because it isn't in any of the descriptions. When I bought my window from them, my window came with the defrost, it was also in the description. They are very helpful and fast to respond in emails. If you have any other questions just ask, I usually check RUclips once a day and will response as quick as possible. I hope this helps.
so u got to set the parking brake and emg brakes to op the cont top huh me thinking mine broke smh lol
el digge check your relays they’re located next the convertible hydraulic pump there’s 2 of em , my top would only go down and not up, turns out it was a bad relay, their pretty cheap , hope this helps
i would have just used some stormsure adhesive and sealed up the hole where it was leaking instead of replacing everything
Great video. One quick question. If I am replacing both the top and window, why don't I have to trace the old markings from the old window to the new window. I though you said this was not necessary.
Because you will want to put the top back in, in the exact same position. You have to be more accurate tracing just the window because the top has already been stretched. if you aren't accurate in tracing the window it will sag inwards or be too taunt then creating a sag in the top. When replacing both top and window they don't have to be as accurate because they stretch, they should be centered and positioned so when putting the convertible top up they should close and come taunt about 2 or 3 inches before the windshield frame before you latch and pull it the rest of the way to latch the top to the windshield. This stretches the top and rear window at same time. it will keep the top taunt and ripple free for the life of the top. Over time when the top stretches it will almost touch the windshield frame when you latch it. I hope this doesn't sound confusing and I hope it helps.
Because you will want to put the top back in, in the exact same position. You have to be more accurate tracing just the window because the top has already been stretched. if you aren't accurate in tracing the window it will sag inwards or be too taunt then creating a sag in the top. When replacing both top and window they don't have to be as accurate because they stretch, they should be centered and positioned so when putting the convertible top up they should close and come taunt about 2 or 3 inches before the windshield frame before you latch and pull it the rest of the way to latch the top to the windshield. This stretches the top and rear window at same time. it will keep the top taunt and ripple free for the life of the top. Over time when the top stretches it will almost touch the windshield frame when you latch it. I hope this doesn't sound confusing and I hope it helps.
+Zero Fuel Required Thanks for the quick reply. I am just setting the ground work for this job. I do not know when I will start this but I will give myself 3 days. One to tear off everything, one to put the rear on and one for the top. Thanks again
+Joey Rizzo if you have any questions just ask I'll try to reply quickly. Good luck and take your time.
+Zero Fuel Required One more thing. Do you recommend using the guide(10:25 of video) or going buy the old top and window section?
I have a 97 get convertible and the top is pretty beat up . Theirs a 94 gt convertible with a much better top. Would it be easier to move the 94 top intto the 97. I’m trying to see if this would be easier then tearing the whole top down.
94 and 97 are basically exactly the same body. If you're asking if it would be easier to unbolt the entire frame with convertible top intact to transfer the top another car would be easier? That would probably be a yes. Put the cars side by side. Then pull the seats and quarter panel out to compare the frame from one year to the next to make sure they didn't change the way the frame mounts or what hooks to it to maker sure ford didn't change anything. While you've got the car interior apart that has the good top, look for any hiding leaks, dryrot or cracks. You don't want to be doing this repair a year or so from now if the top is no good. If you are planning on keeping the car for a long time a new top might be a better choice. If you decide to do the swap Definitely get help to remove or lift the top from one car. And get help to install it in the other. Hate for you to punch a hole in the good top. Hope this helps and thanks for the question.
Zero Fuel Required thank you
Ive beene looking all over the place on youtube. the staples surrounding the rear window insert of my 1994 crysler lebaron popped out
sleestalk is that a question? I looked online at a brand new Chrysler Lebaron convertible top. They appear to be very similar to the mustang in the way attach and install. If your going to attempt the repair yourself take pictures as you take it apart so you know how it goes back together. It really helps.