Body - Convertible Top Latch Cover Rattles

Bulletin No.: 09-021/08

Last Issued: 7/30/2008

Subject:
SOFT TOP LATCH AND/OR COVER RATTLING

BULLETIN NOTE:
This bulletin supersedes the previous bulletin 09-028/07, issued 7/18/2007. The WARRANTY INFORMATION has been revised.

APPLICABLE MODEL(S)/VINS
2006-2007 MX-5 with VINs lower than JM1 NC**** ** 134259 (built before January 15, 2007)

DESCRIPTION





Some vehicles may exhibit a rattling noise from the soft top latch cover caused by looseness in the soft top latch cover.

As a mass production change to prevent the noise, a pad has been attached to the location where the soft top cover is making the noise. Customers having this concern should have their vehicle repaired using the following repair procedure.

REPAIR PROCEDURE

1. Verify customer concern.

2. Remove the soft top latch cover.

a. Using a plastic windshield setting tool or equivalent, half-disengage the soft top latch hook.

NOTE:
Plastic Windshield Setting Tool (Part Number IS742 - available from Equalizer at 800-334-1334) or similar available through a local supplier.

^ If a flat-tipped screwdriver is to be used, wrap the tip in tape to prevent damage to the soft top latch cover.

^ Do not completely disengage the hook at this step yet. (Just half release the hook engagement.)





b. Using a plastic windshield setting tool or equivalent, remove the soft top latch cover hook holder from the soft top latch hook.

- Right side: While strongly pushing the soft top latch cover inward, insert the fiber stick (or equivalent tool) as shown below, then pry down.

- Left side: While strongly pushing the soft top latch cover inward, insert the fiber stick (or equivalent tool) as shown below, then pry downward.





NOTE:
While strongly pushing the soft top latch cover inward, insert the fiber stick (or equivalent tool) as shown above, then pry downward.

c. Remove the cover.





3. Attach felt pads to the soft top latch hooks, latch and cover.

a. Choose a 0.25 mm-thick FELT pad from the noise parts kit, and cut (1) one 5/8" strip either out of the length or width of the piece of felt then divide/cut it into (2) 3/4" X 5/8" and (4) 5/8" x 5/8" pieces.





b. Wrap 3/4" x 3/4" felt pads around both (2) latch hooks as shown.

NOTE:
ALL CONTACT SURFACES MUST BE WIPED CLEAN WITH ALCOHOL TO ASSURE ADHESION.





c. Attach 5/8" x 5/8" felt pads over both (2) holes in latch. Pierce center of pads using an awl.





d. Remove retaining clips from cover and attach 5/8" x 5/8" felt pads over both (2) retaining clip slots. Cut as shown before reinstalling retaining clips.

4. Re-install the soft top latch cover.





a. Place the cover engagement hook in position.

b. While the side of the soft top latch cover outward using the fiber stick or equivalent tool, allow the soft top latch cover hook to engage.

NOTE:
Use care not to break the hook holder.

c. Lightly tap the soft top latch cover to ensure for good fit.

5. Verify repair.





PART(S) INFORMATION





WARRANTY INFORMATION