Miata Mailing List: January 1993, Message #12
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   From: (none)
Subject: Re: Top replacement
   Date: (none)

I had made some cautious comments about replacing the top.  First, the
velcro pads do not have any function in sealing the  top from water if
they are the ones that I think you are talking about (around the rear
window).  The only function of these velcro pads is to hold the white
plastic sheets to protect the window when the car is shipped from the
factory.  I would not change the top if it is in good condition.  If
you feel that the top is somewhat worn and it will be replaced for
free then by all means have it done.  It is a major project and it is
important that the Dealer have considerable experience or you
will have trouble in the future.  Perhaps the dealer can tell you of
other people who have had the top replaced.  I have a frient who had 
a minor problem with the rubber strip that the vinyl boot clips to.  
In replacing the top the rubber must be unglued from the body and lifted 
off.  When the top is replaced, the rubber must be reglued to the sheet 
metal.  If it is not glued properly, water will leak under the rubber and 
cause rust which will not be apparent until it becomes significant.  Also, 
if they are sloppy with using the adhesive and get it on the paint
behind the boot or on the trunk, it is difficult to remove and to do so 
will result in some scratching of the paint.  The problem which I described
happened to a friend who had a Miata.  They couldn't fix the paint but
they tried to seal any leaks between the rubber strip and the metal. 
Make sure that you let the dealer know that you are aware of these 
problems.  Dealers frequently will attemt work under Waranty that they
are not expert in since they get paid for it very will from Mazda.

Good luck,  Herb Samuels