1997 993 convertible top electrical problem
#1
1997 993 convertible top electrical problem
I have a 1997 993 and my convertible top will not operate. The dashboard light for the hand brake illuminates when I pull the brake but not the light for the top to operate. I have replaced the hand brake switch that sits at the back of the pull arm but that did not correct the problem. Anyone else have this problem or any suggestions where to go next?
#2
Rennlist Member
The light in the clock does not illuminate unless the top is in the process of opening or closing. When the top is completely open or closed the light will not be illuminated.
What happens when you push the switch to open the top?
What happens when you push the switch to open the top?
#3
nothing happens when I press the switch to open the top
#5
Rennlist Member
Just so we've covered all the simple items first, the cabrio top switch can be pushed both at the top and the bottom of the switch, Depressing the front (forward) part of the switch closes the top and pressing the rear of the switch opens the top.
So, with the key in the ignition and it turned to the on position (engine doesn't need to be running) and you depress and hold down the the back part of the switch, what if anything happens?
So, with the key in the ignition and it turned to the on position (engine doesn't need to be running) and you depress and hold down the the back part of the switch, what if anything happens?
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bestco7866 (10-09-2021)
#6
Rennlist Member
This is most probably a cabrio control unit fault. The internal solderings on the connector output pins are known to fail due to vibration. They also have other know electronic challenges, but I'll put my money on that a quick resoldering job will fix this.
This (black plastic housing) unit is placed under the dashboard near the steering column, stacked above the Central Informer Unit, which has an aluminium housing. It is a bit fiddly and uncomfortable to dismantle these.
Cheers,
Tore
This (black plastic housing) unit is placed under the dashboard near the steering column, stacked above the Central Informer Unit, which has an aluminium housing. It is a bit fiddly and uncomfortable to dismantle these.
Cheers,
Tore
The following users liked this post:
bestco7866 (10-09-2021)
#7
With the key in the number 2 position (car not running) when I rock the switch to either position nothing happens but I can hear it click under the dashboard. I have done some more research on this forum and have learned about the problem with the control boxes. Are there any other suggestions before I tear in to that?
This is my first time using a forum like this and I can’t tell you guys how much I appreciate this!!
This is my first time using a forum like this and I can’t tell you guys how much I appreciate this!!
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#9
Rennlist Member
Several relays shall operate inside the control unit in operation, so hearing relay clicks is not a valid verification of it working or not. The relays can also work fine, but the bad solderings will prevent any signals coming in or out of the unit.
I use to remove the control unit without dismantling the ventilation outlet, but it is a bit fiddly.
Cheers,
Tore
I use to remove the control unit without dismantling the ventilation outlet, but it is a bit fiddly.
Cheers,
Tore
#11
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Loren
Systems Consulting - Automotive Electronics
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http://www.systemsc.com/
Loren
Systems Consulting - Automotive Electronics
Specializing in Porsche cars
http://www.systemsc.com/
#12
Rennlist Member
I have a 1997 993 and my convertible top will not operate. The dashboard light for the hand brake illuminates when I pull the brake but not the light for the top to operate. I have replaced the hand brake switch that sits at the back of the pull arm but that did not correct the problem. Anyone else have this problem or any suggestions where to go next?
Now you can also check the top drive cables, easy to pull cables. If you have about 1/2" of end showing on each, and cables seem free they are probably ok. Next reconnect it all and tap the motor with a little hammer again while someone is holding the switch down. The motor may come briefly back to life. A new motor is about $300. Good luck!
#14
Hi Everyone and thanks for the help so far, but I'm back. I have had my control module re- soldered by a pro and now I get the dash light to illuminate when I try to open the top but the top does not move. The dash light now stays Illuminated along with the brake light and will not go off even when I release the brake. I can hear clicking under the dash when I press the rocker switch