Replacing 1998 Z3 convertible top

[z3flowers]

I need assistance. My plastic window somehow got a 6-inch tear in it like someone poked a knife in it. Also, the rubber strip surrounding the window is peeling off around the corners. Is it better to try to replace the window? or replace the whole top? I see a new top on eBay for $350, which seems like a good price... is there a place that sells for less? And how difficult is it to install the new one? What's all involved? I'm fairly mechanical (retired engineer) but by no means am I an auto mechanic. The guy selling the top said it takes him about 6 hrs to install one when he does it at his shop. Does this sound reasonable?

[crash8168]

its easier to replace the window, it zips in, the rubber is part of the window also.

[VFW_ARMY_Z3M]

When I bought my M Roadster last august the back window was pretty nasty greenish, and yucky I bought a new back window about $200.00 from a dealer in Orange County, it was a real pain in the rear to install. I did it by myself in the garage, I finally after several months bought an entire new top from Bavarian Motor Sports, just over $400.00 I think, and went to a local upholstery shop they installed it in about 8 hours for $350.00.

[RicRatCat]

Has anyone replaced the top them selves? I just got my '97 Z3 yesterday and need to replace the top. BavAuto already has a top en route to me.

[VFW_ARMY_Z3M]

Look in the yellow pages under automotive upholstery I had mine done here in San Diego very good job for $300.00 out the door. It took them about 8 or 9 hours and that's their specialty. I wouldn't try it at home.

[joyce1greencar]

I took my car to 2 different 'top' people and they said its too warn out to just replace the window. So any recommendations on what type of top to get?