Question about a sunroof install, can a used one be installed?

[BBQ_HotDogs]

I have seen many sunroofs at the local junk-yards. I can get one pretty cheap, but can it be re-installed into a 98? I was just looking to save a few bucks if I can, but if it going to cost me allot anyway, then I might as well get a new after market one installed for $1195. What do you think?

 

[Ray Lobato]

Are you going to be doing this yourself, or just taking the sunroof out of the donor, and having someone else install it?
The only think I can think of would be the condition of the gaskets, and can you procure new gaskets for the old sunroof if the old gaskets are bad.

 

[BBQ_HotDogs]

I found one from someone here. I would definately get new gaskets. I was wondering if I would save much money or if in the end I should buy a new one and have it installed. I cannot do it myself that's for sure. so either way it would have to be installed by a professional.

 

[Robb]

I would just buy a new one and have it installed.

A) the install shop is going to charge you more for the install since they aren't making any profit on selling you a roof
B) the shop isn't going to warranty a used roof
C) by the time you track down and purchase the proper gaskets, you will probably have a good amount of time/money invested in a used roof

And all of this is after you actually find a professional that is willing to install a used roof, which I don't you will find.

 

[BBQ_HotDogs]

I would just buy a new one and have it installed.

A) the install shop is going to charge you more for the install since they aren't making any profit on selling you a roof
B) the shop isn't going to warranty a used roof
C) by the time you track down and purchase the proper gaskets, you will probably have a good amount of time/money invested in a used roof

And all of this is after you actually find a professional that is willing to install a used roof, which I don't think you will find.

This is what I was afraid of. I might be able to pull this off and save 500 or so if the price of the moonroof is right though. Still waiting to here back on that. I guess that will be the final decision maker there. Thanks Rob for the quick response.

 

[Flounder]

The most important concept here is the warranty. If you buy a quality unit from a shop (see: http://stlouismtb.tripod.com/moonroof.html) you could probably have them wire it into a stock Ford overhead console with moonroof switch (check eBay, salvage yards, etc.). And, in the end, if it leaks or doesn't want to work, you know it's going to be fixed on their bill, not yours.