2001 M Roadster rear window replacement facts?

[Bimmerphile4]

I see the rear window is zippered in. Mine is all scratched, yellowed and the black trim/beading around the window is separating. I went to a local auto top and trim place and they said the window can't be replaced and I need a whole new top for $2200. I see replacement tops on convertibletopguys.com. They offer an "OEM" replacement top in Sonnendeck canvas for $469.95. I mentioned this to the top and trim guy and he claimed that the advertised "OEM" type tops never fit worth #@$$% and that it would take two days of labor to install correctly. Does anyone have some experience in this area? I'd like to know if replacing the window and trim only is a possibility, or if complete replacement is the only remedy. I feel like the top and trim guy might be full of it. Help please, and thanks in advance! I've asked a lot of questions since joining the group and everyone has been very helpful.

 

[Althulas]

Yes you can order a replacement window from BMW at a premium compared to after market suppliers. But you need to look at the condition in my view of your roof overall if it’s worth it, ie has the ‘canvas ‘ shrunk that the side window rubbers are not covered by the top and if it’s getting a bit patchy thread bare in places than a new roof is worth considering. Fortunately over here in the UK there are a few places who offer fitted complete roofs with sewn in window though for £300 - £395 a no brainier for us. If your roof is in good nick though a new oem window is the best option, other views may differ from this but younzip area has to be rot free. It’s. Two person job to fit with you and a mate. There’s a guide on here somewhere which I’m sure you can navigate.

Just my tuppanse on the subject.

 

[BMBabe]

@Randy Forbes @FRANKIE

 

[FRANKIE]

I forgot where you are located......................Frankie

 

[Bimmerphile4]

My top is decent without obvious wear. Is there an instructional video anywhere that shows how to do this? I found a supposedly super high quality replacement window for $199 at Z3window.com. Any experience with these guys? I understand the zipper part: just don't know how to get the fabric back under the rubber bead.