996inTX

I recently changed out the hydraulic cylinders for my top mechanism on my 2000 C2 Cab. Followed the Cabriolet Hydraulics instructions to a T and used the key to raise/lower my top a few times to work out the air in the hydraulic system. Top would get stuck halfway open and then continue to open all the way. Then it would get stuck coming back up, again, about halfway, and then continue until latched. Clamshell was working fine each time - up when it needed to, and then down when not.

Then the clamshell got stuck open. And it's been like that ever since. Kinda looks like I've got a new wing!

I think (hope) I need to take it to my indy to get it recalibrated, but I don't want to drive it with the clamshell up to the shop.

Is there a way I can close the clamshell manually? I've searched all over the boards and haven't found any method which specifically allows me to close it manually, only the method allowing me to open it manually.

Any ideas?

frisbee91

Probably needs recalibration since you used the hex key to manually move the top. Either that or one of the microswitches on the top, side wings, or clamshell isn't working properly.

The hex key should allow you to move the clamshell. I think you change the rotation direction to make this happen. Read the manual to be sure.

On second look at the manual, it looks like you just push it closed from behind.

996inTX

Thanks Frisbee for the insight. I saw this in the manual, but the only difference is my top closed on its own using the key and latched in automatically.

I went to push the clamshell down, but it doesn't budge.

I wonder if some switch somewhere isn't triggered since I was able to latch the top without using the Allen key?

996inTX

So I went out to the garage and tried to push it down again, exerting a wee bit more force than last time. And it went down! And I didn't hear any bangs, cracks, or otherwise unnerving noises!

Next stop is off to my indy for a recalibration (hopefully - that's all it is). Keep everyone posted.

996inTX

So good news and bad news. I took it to my indy and they said the clamshell is fine. Bad news is the reason the top gets stuck halfway up or halfway down is a problem with the top motor. They ordered a $30 repair kit for it, but if that doesn't sort it out , we may need to source a new motor.

Two questions to all of you:
1) had anybody heard of this repair kit fit the top motor? Any experiences with such as kit?

2) thoughts on a used vs refurbished motor vs a new one?

KrazyK

Sorry bro. After reading thread title and tags, I assumed you were having marital troubles. Maybe be more specific when using the word "clam".

FRUNKenstein

I am getting ready to tackle a complete top hydraulics system rebuild in a 2005 SL500. After researching companies online, it appears to me that Tophydraulicsinc.com is who I will use to rebuild the cylinders. I hope I don't have to rebuild the pump/motor also, but it appears they do that also. I called them to get cylinder removal instructions for the R230 Benz, and they had a tech email them to me within an hour, even though I haven't paid them a dime yet. So I was impressed with that customer service. I also see that they regularly contribute on various forums to help owners troubleshoot their cars.

scea95

I've got a small fluid leak on the drivers side coming from the cylinder on that side - been looking a trophy for a rebuild as well. Surprised how much the part is new!

996inTX

Hah! If I was having marital issues, I damn sure wouldn't take her to an indy.

Kaychub

Ok reviving an old thread, I have the exact same problem did the exact same thing, changed out my cylinders for some used ones and the clamshell motor isn't working, the emergency lift mechanism is worn so I can turn it, so I found the repair kit it's part number 15 here http://www.autoatlanta.com/porsche-p...section=811-12

Does anyone know how to change this? Right now the only way I can use the convertible top is using my Durametric and to manually pull open the clamshell, anyone fixed this repair kit in before? Do I need to do anything in particular to get this working?

996inTX

Sorry I can't offer any additional advice. My Indy did the work after they ordered the repair kit, so I'm not sure what they did, but it's all good now. Hopefully, someone with more knowledge will come along soon.

Kaychub

Thanks let's hope so, unfortunately over here there are no indy Porsche specialists, only general mechanics that do everything and I've been screwed over enough! We have one stealer in the entire country and there's no way I'm going to them! I've gotten this far with restoring this dream machine purely by rennlister'a posts and from other forums

ysolanki

996inTX did the convertible need recalibration after using the repair kit on the clamshell motor?

I have a similar problem as yours the clamshell motor spins but is not able to engage the drive unit to move the clamshell hinges via cables.

My theory is the the splines in the motor are stripped and is not able to engage the square drive.

Any help will be appreciated.

Cheers.

Kaychub

Did you at any point use the emergency open by using a hex tool? Once you do this you will have to change the kit as it breaks off the connection with the motor cogs/splines, then you will have to calibrate the potentiometer to work at the right time with other moving parts.

ysolanki

Thank you for the response kaychub.

Yes I did use the emergency open using the hex tool to lift the clamshell. So If I understood correctly just replace the square drive unit kit inside the motor (using the repair kit) and get it recalibrated at the dealership?

So no need to replace the complete motor?