I've owned my convertible since new. In that time, I've replaced the roof once, for the same problem as the original, and now need another one: repeatedly putting it up and down causes tears on the sides, in the rear, over the quarter panels. They start small, and gradually grow to about an inch long. 2 or 3 on each side, the passenger side is the first to go. Years ago, I knew a mechanic who checked into it on the AllData database, and found a service bulletin related to a problem down inside..when the top is down, it rubs against something inside that causes the tears. Of course, that was right after I put the new top on, so I didn't save the print-out for the repair . I believe this was a factory defect. Does anyone know anything about this? Have the same problem? Know the correct fix? Or have, or know anyone, with AllData who can look it up? This time I'll do it right, and fix the problem before I put the new top on. Thanks!

 

ON the top there are two bungee like cords that attach close to the edge where the main support is for the frame. Those bugees are suppose to pull the top in as the top is folded down preventing the top itself from getting caught in the frame as it is dropped into the car.