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Chrysler Sebring Convertible

The great thing about a convertible on the Chrystler Sebring, or any automobile for that matter, is that it allows you to literally transform your car and your driving experience whenever you want.  The Chrysler Sebring convertible, from the time it was originally introduced in 1996, was extremely popular and became the best selling convertible in the world during the years 2001 – 2005.  Currently Chrysler is on its 3^rd generation of the Sebring.  The Sebring convertible tops of first two generations are the subject of this article.

SEBRING 1st and 2nd GENERATION CONVERTIBLE TOPS

The first generation Sebrings were the model years 1996 through 2000 and were available in three trims, the JX, the Jxi, and the Limited edition.  The Limited was available from 1998-2000 only.  The convertible top frame for all of the first generation years and models is the same. This opens up the option of replacing the convertible top with either an upgraded material or a more economical material than originally came with the vehicle. 

In 2001, Chrysler introduced the second generation Sebring, which in later years was offered as the Limited Edition, LX and LXi trims.  For the year 2001 through 2006 the top frame was a little larger.  But, like the first generation, Chrysler Sebring convertible top for the years 2001-2006 in both Sailcloth Vinyl and Twillfast canvas will fit all trims for those years.

Originally, the JX and Lx trims came with a Sailcloth Vinyl material which is a two ply composite made of a PVC sailcloth grain outer layer  bonded to a polyester/cotton inner lining. And, the Jxi, Lxi and Limited edition trimss came with an acoustically enhanced Twillfast, a three-ply composite made of acrylic  twill weave outer fabric, an elastomeric inner layer and a polyester/cotton lining fabric.  There is a significant difference in both cost and quality of Sailcloth Vinyl versus Twillfast Cloth.

What’s good about this is that as long as you select a first generation or second generation convertible top replacement for your Sebring, you can substitute either material on any trim of Sebring.  That means, that depending on your budget, and what you want to achieve with your restoration, there is going to be a convertible top replacement solution for you.

Chrysler Sebring Two-Piece Convertible Top

SEBRING CONVERTIBLE TOP DESIGN

For all model years from 1996-2006, the Sebring Convertible top is a classic two-piece design.  A two piece top includes a window section and a main top section.  The window section includes, obviously, the glass window, which is bonded to the fabric that attaches to the top frame independently from the main top section.

The key characteristic of a two-piece convertble top design is the overlapping quarter panels.  That is, the main top section overlaps the window section in the rear quarters.  A one-piece style top has the window bonded into one complete convertible top with no overlapping panels.

Convertible Top Window Section for the Sebring

The window section is the more complex assembly of the two-piece Sebring convertble top.  It includes a heated glass window with embedded defroster wiring and electrical connectors, a metal tacking attachment bracket that is used to secure the window section to the vehicle and to secure the main section to the window section.

The window is bonded to the material.  In this image the material is Sailcloth Vinyl, which on the inside is a polyester/cotton blend.  There is also additional support material and excess material along the top and bottom of the window section that is stapled to the convertible top frame.

After a well built convertible top has been fitted to your car, you will find the resulting product appearance and quality indistinguishable from a brand new original top.  The windows are DOT certified and feature an emblem to assure compliance.  The convertible top fits to the original headliner, which you may reuse if your headliner is in good condition.  

There are a lot of suppliers of Sebring convertible tops online and the quality is not always the same.  Also, a higher price online does not necessarily mean a better product.  Look for a supplier that you can trust to provide a high quality product, fast shipping, great service, and a great warranty all at a competitive price.