Roof hitting the tonneau when opening

Hi-Step'n370Z

I'm in New York State and I had both bungees replaced for a total of $700.00. It only took the Tech a few hours, maybe you should try another dealer. If you could save half the $1200, even if you went to a dealer out of your area and had to take a motel for one night, it would still be worth it. $1200 is just too much.

DocJ

Just tried this as an experiment, taking some of the slack out of the bungees. Definitely helped, and may serve as a temporary fix until getting around to replacing the bungees. I took a 1/4 copper slip joint and a zip tie (pic1), and positioned the copper tube behind the bungee, closing the zip tie around it (pic2). Then I took a second zip tie to "pinch" the bungee cords behind the copper tube, taking up some of the slack (pic3) & pulling the zip tie tight. Little bit of a tight squeeze getting it back in between the roof frame tubing. I did wrap the copper tube in some duct tape to cover the ends so as to avoid rubbing against the top or other structures. Thought this might help give someone else some ideas.

Attached Images

	pic1.jpg (67.3 KB, 45 views)
	pic2.jpg (69.6 KB, 42 views)
	pic3.jpg (67.6 KB, 50 views)

gbhrps

DocJ,

I like your approach to shortening the 5th bow bungee cords (one on each side).

I'm curious to know how that large copper water pipe section, (even though wrapped in duct tape to prevent rub through on the top fabric materials, etc.) will fit back into the top mechanism and fabric without creating a lump. Can you give us an idea as to how it appears to be working from a looks department as well as an interference with hoses, wiring,fabric and bow sections?

I wonder how using a waxed shoe lace instead of the zip ties, and then removing the copper tube out altogether would work. Use the copper tube or something of similar size and shape to wrap the bungee cords around, but tie them off tightly with a shoe lace, cut off the extra shoe lace ends, and pull the tubing out and discard it.

Would the bungee cords then slip out of the knot over time? I don't know, but maybe they won't. Maybe someone will try this method and let us know.

DocJ, I think you're on to something here.

Gene

DocJ

Appearance wise, can't tell it's there. No bumps or anything noticeable, as it sits next to roof frame tubing, so it doesn't hit top fabric that I can tell. Don't think it's interfering with anything, since it's inline with the bungee itself.

gbhrps

DocJ,

Thanks or the update!

I may be doing the same as you in the very near future. I haven't tried any fix as of yet, as my small issue started up just at the end of last driving season, and the car isn't on the road yet (darn winter).

If I go this route (or something similar) I'll get back and post my findings for everyone.

Gene

DocJ

Ordered replacement bungees couple of weeks ago, and took my car into a local shop that does tops, seats & upholstery. Charged me $200 for the labor & first operating of the top is perfect! Hope this lasts another few years. Props to the shop here in Knoxville, Precision Window Tint Seats N Stuff, for taking care of this for me!

vman12

just an fyi, nissan may soon have a permanent fix for the 5th bow issue - lid hitting the roof

Roadster Top problems - Nissan Corporate wants you to call in and open case

Storage lid rubs the fifth bow when opening the soft top