What causes the acrylic tops to crack?

[joshwilson3]

....

 

[boomdriver]

Because the C4 roof panel is a structural componant, it is subjected to the same stress that any other frame member receives. The aftermarket pieces are likely not as strong (thickness or quality of resins) as the OEM part.

 

[93Rubie]

I would call Melrose and talk to them, is there some sort of warranty on the top?

 

[vetteboy86]

Sorry to hear about your unfortunate situation.

 

[Jeb]

Do you have a written copy of the warrantee?

If so, do you have a lawyer?

 

[gmjunkie]

Just wondering what causes the acrylic tops to crack? I have heard if the front is bolted down too tight, then that could cause a crack.But what would cause the crack if the top is adjusted correctly?

Astro Top lasted 7 years with no warps or cracks. Melrose put a new lense on my frame, and their lense warped and cracked in less than a year and it didn't even have 500 miles on it.

Warping +
Crack down the middle =

That top was too damned tight Dude!! :eyerole

 

[gmjunkie]

The top wasn't too tight. :eyerole

Ok suite yourself!!:L

But what your saying is,you had a de-laminating Thompson top on the vehicle,Didn't crack or warp because it was de-laminating and the stress was relieved!! (Most likely caused from Excessive Pre-Load)
Then you basically put a Melrose Top on it without re-adjusting the mounting brackets on the vehicle and the Melrose top warped and cracked!
(Again more ear makings of Excessive Pre-Load)

I'm no rocket scientist,but this tells me that there is more than likely a problem with the vehicle than there is the top!!:L

And you wonder why your Band-Aid fix went foul! :eyerole

I don't know what you do for a living,but with your way of thinking and if your not a politician you missed your mark and should be!!

In most cases Warp-age,Cracks or De-lamination is caused by
1. Age
2. Improper Top Alignment
3. Improper Top Pre-load
4. Excessive Chassis Mis-Alignment or Flex
5. "INSTANT KARMA"



After your thread back in November and other posts slamming the Phuck out of poor Mr Thompson,My "Gypsy Witch Cards" says 4 out of 5 above probly got both of yours!!

 

[Bronze85]

OMG! A new topic same....

 

[Schrade]

But what would cause the crack if the top is adjusted correctly?

When manufacturers mix the hardener and the resin, it is more brittle if too much hardener is used. The longer the cure process (less hardener), the more flex it will have.

More hardener means faster curing, and quicker $$$ to market. MEK is better too as a hardener, but some use cyano-acrylate (same as superglue). Cures VERY hard... same as mixing fiberglass for boat / Jeep repair.