Convertible Top Frame: Service and Repair

Convertible frame with top cover and headliner, removing and installing





1 - Convertible frame with cover
Removing:
- Remove rear side panel trim
- Open convertible top
- Disconnect harness connectors to convertible frame
- Secure adjusting shim -4- to prevent possible collapse
- Seal opening in floor of convertible top storage compartment with a clean rag
- Loosen hex-nuts -9-
- Remove adjusting shim -4-
- Remove nuts -8- and bolts -9-
- Lift frame out from above

Notes:
• If the top collapses after removal, secure it with strong tie wraps to keep it from accidentally opening.
• Shims -5- and -6- can stay in place. If removal is necessary, note the location and thickness of shims.
• When installing, return adjusting shims and support shims to their exact original locations in vehicle.
Installing:
• Rear side trim panel removed
• Doors installed
• Rear window installed
- Install convertible top and tighten hex-nuts
- Top must still be movable
- Close top and lock into locking guide on roof frame
- Check gap Adjustments
- Open cover
- Tighten nut -8-
- Check gap between mounting bracket and convertible top storage wall; insert adjusting shims -4- if necessary
- Check for ease of movement when closing convertible top
• With top closed, door window and rear window must slide into front, center and rear seals

Notes:
• Adjust gap dimensions by adding or taking away adjusting and/or support shims.
• Always check for ease of movement when closing convertible top.
• Door windows and rear side windows must be lowered 50 mm (2.0 in) when operating convertible top

2 - Front seal
• Installing Service and Repair
3 - Center seal
• Installing Service and Repair
4 - Adjusting shim
• Adjusts top longitudinally
• Install as needed. Check for ease of movement when closing convertible top
5 - Support shims, front
6 - Support shims, rear
• Same thickness as front support plates

Note: If the load from the convertible top is too great on the trim strip of the convertible top storage lid, it could lead to an excessively high closing force causing the front latch bolt to move in a longitudinal direction. If necessary insert additional support shims at front and rear.

7 - Support washer
8 - Hex-nut
• 23 Nm (17 ft lb)
9 - Hex-head bolt
• 23 Nm (17 ft lb)
10 - Support washer
11 - Convertible top storage lid

Fig. 1 - Securing convertible top:

WARNING! The collapsed convertible cover must be secured on both sides with strong tie wraps -1- to prevent unintentional opening. Unintentional opening of the convertible top can cause damage to the cover and frame (as well as the risk of injury).