28 January 2008
I bought a new-to-me top from Mazmart in Atlanta. They specialize in recycled Mazda parts (read: they buy wrecked Mazdas and part them out). They have a pretty good operation going on down there so, if you're in the market for some used OEM Mazda stuff, give 'em a call (www.mazmart.com). Phone number is on the website.
So, here we go. Here's the top I bought.
First step was to get everything loosened. I had to remove the rear carpet to get to the rain rail.
From here, I got the rain rail nuts taken out and loosened the 6 bolts holding the frame on (located beside the seat belt towers behind the plastic fascia). The top came off without a hitch. 
Putting the new top in wasn't as bad as I had thought. I was afraid the rain rail would be a pain in the butt; instead it was quite the opposite. Taking care not to crack it, I got the rail behind the beltline moulding. At this point, I loosely fitted the bolts onto the frame brackets and got the top on, sort of.
Closed the top to finish torqueing the rain rail nuts (very lightly, I think it was 20 in-lbs or so). 
Got everything tightened down, and latched it all up to check alignment. 
Doesn't look too bad, huh?
Just one step closer to finishing "the project". A paint job will HOPEFULLY be on the next page soon.
