I have searched the forums (and the internet) for info on this, can’t find anything…

I want to replace the plastic slider that guides the clamshell arm in its track on the inside of the fender. It’s called the “convertible top guide arm slide,” Porsche part# 986-561-577-01. The parts diagram seems to show a slot at one end of the track (presumably to help with removal/replacement) but my car has no such slots. I tried removing the bolt from one end to see if I could slide the old one out/new one in but there is a washer permanently attached to the track that gets in the way.

Anyone out there replaced these? It seems to be a common part but I can’t find any info about how to get them in or out.

Thanks in advance!

 

My bet would be that the washer is not a part of the track, it’s just been there for so long that it’s sticking to it. Pull the bolt and tap out the washer with a drift or a screwdriver.

 

Thanks, tcora. That was my initial thought too, I tried persuading it but it’s quite stubborn. Maybe I’ll go in a again with a little more force but there’s a point where it seems like too much…

 

You may be right. I looked at the parts drawing, and it does not show the washer as a separate part. Is there also one at the other (rear) end of the track? If not, then it looks like you'll need to work it from that direction. If there is one there, I think i'm out of ideas...

 

I thought of this too. The forward attachment is so buried under other stuff that I don’t see a way to get to the bolt short of removing the entire top bow assembly. I’m out of ideas too…. Thanks for the input though!

 

UPDATE:

After some additional work I was eventually able to remove the washers in the tracks, and then the slide bushings just pull right out. My washers were pretty stubborn but persistence pays! Installing the new ones was simple enough but the spring ears need some compressing to get them in the track. I lubed the bushings and track with spray silicone (for best compatibility and life of the plastic) and everything operates smoothly.

For anyone working on your convertible top mechanism (which is apparently going to be everyone eventually) I highly recommend doing this at the same time. Thanks for the suggestions here!