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» www.chirpthird.com » General Discussion » F-Body: Convertibles » COVERTIBLE TOP NOT WORKING!....HELP

   
Author Topic: COVERTIBLE TOP NOT WORKING!....HELP
dariusman18
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Hi everyone,

I recently purchased a Black 1997 Z28 vert with 49k mi. It's in excellent condition but I can't seem to get the top to work. I've read the manual reverse,parking brake,etc. but it doesn't even make a sound or move at all. I've been switching the valve to the closed position to lift/close it manually.

What could be the problem?

I really hope it's a simple fix like fluid or something, or do I need a new pump? [Frown] .....

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1997 Z28 VERT

1990 5.0 LX

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HotWheelSS aka HTWLSS
SSOA Director
Member # 117

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Check the fluid level first.

There's another thread in this forum, addressing the issue. A search should bring it up for you.

--------------------
Do you own a '96-'02 Camaro SS?
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 -  - Teri
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'67 230, 6-cyl Convertible; '68 V-8 TB Convertible; '68 LS1/6-speed; ’72 Z28 for sale; '90 5.7 IROC; '98 Z28 SLP Durability Car; '00+ Camaro "Body in White"; '99 Convertible SS #0069
McGee's Auto Service

Posts: 7198 | From: Near Portland, Oregon, USA | Registered: Feb 2000  |  IP: Logged
dariusman18
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quote:
Originally posted by HTWLSS:
Check the fluid level first.

There's another thread in this forum, addressing the issue. A search should bring it up for you.

I already have that thread printed up infront of me, but I'm at work and can't do anything right now (my car is at home). I just wanted to ask the question so hopefully you guys would ease my mind. [Big Grin]

[ 29. August 2002, 02:42 PM: Message edited by: dariusman18 ]

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Steve da Wrench
3rd Gear
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Actually, if it makes NO noise at all, then its not low on fluid(at least that not what is causing THIS problem). I would assume that you may have a connector unplugged, or a bad/missing circuit breaker. There is a 30 amp circuit breaker which you should check. Also, is it a stick, or auto? You MUST have the key in the ON position for the top to work. I would pull the switch out of the console and inpect in there too. If you need anything else like wiring diagrams, etc, let me know.
Steve. [Smile]

--------------------
- Steve Heino  -  -
The "other" owner of '99 SS #69


McGee's Auto Service, an SLP AutoGroup/Perf. Parts Installer.


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2002Z4CSS
"Post"er Child
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Check for any blown fuses. If ok ,check for 12v at the pump when the switch is held in the up or down position.If no power is present,then there is a circuit concern.If there is power and a good ground at the pump,tap on the pump while someone holds the switch and see if the pump starts working. If it does,the motor probably needs to be replaced.
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HotWheelSS aka HTWLSS
SSOA Director
Member # 117

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Whoops, I didn't read closely enough....my apologies!

I'm electrically challenged, so don't pay any attention to me....the two guys who answered back are the ones who really know what they're talking about.

(I'll go stand in the corner now.)

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dariusman18
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quote:
Originally posted by Steve da Wrench:
Actually, if it makes NO noise at all, then its not low on fluid(at least that not what is causing THIS problem). I would assume that you may have a connector unplugged, or a bad/missing circuit breaker. There is a 30 amp circuit breaker which you should check. Also, is it a stick, or auto? You MUST have the key in the ON position for the top to work. I would pull the switch out of the console and inpect in there too. If you need anything else like wiring diagrams, etc, let me know.
Steve. [Smile]

It's a 6 speed, Where would I check for this unplugged connector? Also the car is always running when I try to use the top. Speaking of the switch it's kinda loose and I pulled it out it's connected to something leading behind the console. I read the manual and it said the convertible top button, and the windows use the same fuse, so I ruled out the fuse since the windows work.

How much does a motor cost? easy to install? [Frown]

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2002Z4CSS
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Member # 1393

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quote:
Originally posted by dariusman18:
quote:
Originally posted by Steve da Wrench:
Actually, if it makes NO noise at all, then its not low on fluid(at least that not what is causing THIS problem). I would assume that you may have a connector unplugged, or a bad/missing circuit breaker. There is a 30 amp circuit breaker which you should check. Also, is it a stick, or auto? You MUST have the key in the ON position for the top to work. I would pull the switch out of the console and inpect in there too. If you need anything else like wiring diagrams, etc, let me know.
Steve. [Smile]

It's a 6 speed, Where would I check for this unplugged connector? Also the car is always running when I try to use the top. Speaking of the switch it's kinda loose and I pulled it out it's connected to something leading behind the console. I read the manual and it said the convertible top button, and the windows use the same fuse, so I ruled out the fuse since the windows work.

How much does a motor cost? easy to install? [Frown]

If the switch feels loose ,maybe it fell apart. Check for power and ground at the pump motor 1st with someone holding the switch before buying a motor.
Posts: 5682 | From: Dearborn,Mi. | Registered: Feb 2002  |  IP: Logged
dariusman18
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To tell you the truth it's not really that big of a deal because of being able to just lift it by hand. I well check fluid level and the other things when I get home, I will just end up taking it to the Chevrolet Dearlship and have them fix it.

Are you positive that it couldn't be as simple as the fluid?

The switch is connected, I can just pull it out very easliy.

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2002Z4CSS
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quote:
Originally posted by dariusman18:
To tell you the truth it's not really that big of a deal because of being able to just lift it by hand. I well check fluid level and the other things when I get home, I will just end up taking it to the Chevrolet Dearlship and have them fix it.

Are you positive that it couldn't be as simple as the fluid?

The switch is connected, I can just pull it out very easliy.

If it is that low on fluid,there should be signs of a leak.
Posts: 5682 | From: Dearborn,Mi. | Registered: Feb 2002  |  IP: Logged
dariusman18
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Ok thanks for you help, When I get home I'll check the fluid level. if it's fine then I'll know it's not the problem and just take it top the dealer.

[ 29. August 2002, 05:04 PM: Message edited by: dariusman18 ]

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Cal
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Hi Darius.
I just thought of something (and I'm no expert but it might be worth a shot). You mentioned that you lift your top manually nowadays. Maybe you need to shut the release valve again in order for the motor to pump fluid and build the necessary pressure to open or shut the top.

Now, I know you said that there's no noise coming from the motor, so that (admittedly) takes away about half the credibility of my idea... but hey, it might be as simple as that. And if it is, then you just saved yourself a trip to the dealer.

Here's hoping! [Smile]

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dariusman18
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quote:
Originally posted by Cal:
Hi Darius.
I just thought of something (and I'm no expert but it might be worth a shot). You mentioned that you lift your top manually nowadays. Maybe you need to shut the release valve again in order for the motor to pump fluid and build the necessary pressure to open or shut the top.

Now, I know you said that there's no noise coming from the motor, so that (admittedly) takes away about half the credibility of my idea... but hey, it might be as simple as that. And if it is, then you just saved yourself a trip to the dealer.

Here's hoping! [Smile]

I've actually tried that, But I don't know how long it takes to build up pressure.I'm not worried because I live in San Francisco, and the top is up most of the time.(foggy) [Big Grin]
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DROPTAWP
2nd Gear
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Saw this post a few months back. Just checking in.... Any update on your prob? Did you get it sorted out?

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DT - 2000 SS 'Vert #C061

Posts: 308 | From: Brampton, Ontario Canada | Registered: Jan 2001  |  IP: Logged
   

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