Unexplained Convertible Leak

[fakeplstctrees]

Hello fellow R3v brethren, I would have posted in a dedicated convertible thread if one existed, so here we go in the general area. I have an e30 cabriolet in exquisite condition, in fact I just got it back from my new master mechanic yesterday, I plan on posting about him in a separate thread, he practically rebuilt my M20. The interior is in almost new condition, the previous owners either took meticulous care of it, or redone it. When I bought it two years ago, the top was in great condition, but some punk slashed my plastic rear window, so I recently replaced the top through insurance, at the best interiors/convertible top place here in Greenwich, and the entire area, it cost about three grand.

But now, same as when I got it, there is unexplained moisture on the carpet behind the driver's seat, and only behind the driver's seat. This happens whenever it rains. I can't imagine where the water is getting in, there seems to be nothing wrong with the windows or top. Nothing underneath either, lol.

Do you guys have any experiences similar to this, maybe some knowledge about resolving it? I might just have to pony up the money to have a smoke test done, to locate the source of penetration.

[Semblance]

So have you sprayed it with a hose to look for the leak?

[fakeplstctrees]

So have you sprayed it with a hose to look for the leak?

That does seem like a good idea, and no I haven't. I have checked it in the rain, and saw nothing though.

[Das Delfin]

The top has a few seals which fit between the top and the windows, which sometimes don't fit right. Water could be leaking there. Also, there's a "vertical gasket" between the front and rear windows, which could be leaking. There could also be a leak at the seals between the windows and doors, and also, the rear of the top could be sealing incorrectly with the body. Lastly, the front corners where the top meets the windshield and side window glass leak on most convertibles, regardless of condition. I've learned to park my car uphill and keep towels on the front seats if it's out in the rain. I'm saving up for a garage one of these days...

[cWalk3r]

My guess is the rear window weather stripping. If it's not pushing against the window hard enough water will get through.

[fakeplstctrees]

Thanks guys, I'm sure over the past thirty or so years, people have seen everything that could go wrong with a convertible, in these babies.