Convertible Top Hydraulic Cylinder: Service and Repair

Folding Top Cylinder Replacement

Removal Procedure

Warning: Refer to Eye Protection Warning Eye Protection Warning.


Warning: Refer to Folding Top Hydraulic Pressure Warning Service Precautions.


Warning: Refer to Servicing Electrical Components Warning Servicing Electrical Components Warning.


Note: The folding top cylinder hydraulic hose bracket does not need to be removed for this procedure.

Ensure that the component being serviced receives new O-rings when reinstalling because of the high pressure.

1. Place all the windows in the full down position.

2. Remove the rear seat back and lower cushion. Refer to Rear Seat Back Cushion Replacement (Coupe) Rear Seat Back Cushion Replacement (Coupe)Rear Seat Back Cushion Replacement (Convertible) Rear Seat Back Cushion Replacement (Convertible).

3. Remove the quarter trim panel. Refer to Quarter Trim Panel Replacement (Coupe) Quarter Trim Panel Replacement (Coupe)Quarter Trim Panel Replacement (Convertible) Quarter Trim Panel Replacement (Convertible).

Note: Do not disconnect the hydraulic cylinder hoses from the cylinder. Release the retaining clip from the top of the stud ball and clip and pin from the bottom of the hydraulic cylinder.

4. Remove the hydraulic cylinder clip and pin from the bottom of the hydraulic cylinder bracket.




5. Remove the hydraulic cylinder hose (2) from the retainers (1) on the inner quarter panel bracket.

1. Bring the hydraulic cylinder up to top of the opening.

2. Before releasing the hose clips, place clean shop towels to control any hydraulic fluid leakage.





Note: Remove the hoses one at a time. You will repeat this entire procedure for the second hose.

Note: When doing the right side use care not to damage the retractable position sensor when transferring.

6. Use a small flat-bladed tool to release the retainer clip (1) from one of the hydraulic cylinder hoses.
If doing the right side disconnect the retractable position sensor harness.





Note: After you have removed the cylinder hose, Do NOT move the cylinder rod. This will cause fluid to squirt out of the ports.

7. Remove the hydraulic cylinder hose (1).
Position the new hydraulic cylinder next to the old one when transferring, this will allow less leakage.

Installation Procedure

Note: Ensure that the hydraulic lines receive new O-rings when reinstalling to the component.

1. Ensure that the retractable position sensor has been transferred.




2. Ensure that a O-ring (1) is on the ends of the hydraulic cylinder hose (2).

3. Install the hose into the hydraulic cylinder port (3). Press straight down on the hose until the hose is fully seated in the cylinder.

4. If doing the right side Connect the retractable position sensor harness.




5. Install a new cylinder hose retainer clip (1). Inspect the retainer clip to ensure that the clip is fully seated around the hose (2).

6. Repeat the replacement procedure for the second hose.

7. Install the appropriate hydraulic cylinder to the mounting location.

8. Install the hydraulic cylinder pin and clip to the bottom of the hydraulic cylinder bracket. Refer to Folding Top Cylinder Hydraulic Hose Bracket Replacement Folding Top Cylinder Hydraulic Hose Bracket Replacement.




9. Install the cylinder hydraulic hose (2) to the retainers (1) on the quarter panel bracket.

10. Ensure that the folding top hydraulic system is filled. Refer to Folding Top Hydraulic System Bleeding Procedures.

11. Install the quarter trim panel. Refer to Quarter Trim Panel Replacement (Coupe) Quarter Trim Panel Replacement (Coupe)Quarter Trim Panel Replacement (Convertible) Quarter Trim Panel Replacement (Convertible).

12. Install the rear seat back and lower cushion. Refer to Rear Seat Back Cushion Replacement (Coupe) Rear Seat Back Cushion Replacement (Coupe)Rear Seat Back Cushion Replacement (Convertible) Rear Seat Back Cushion Replacement (Convertible).

13. Place the folding top in the lock position, check for appearance and fit.

14. Inspect the front edge of the folding top to windshield frame for a good seal.

15. Water test the vehicle to ensure a proper water tight seal.