Convertible top relay replacement project

[jtschug]

Are you interested in fixing it yourself? It is not easy. How do you open the trunk?

[RAVEN]

Some confusion now exists. You say top does not work, but you say you look in trunk and all looks OK.
Opening of trunk is part of top function.
Question One; do you have the SHOP MANUAL?
Further describe the operational vs non-operational action of the top.
Any and all information narrows down the ability to help getting the top to work.

[Aj live]

I open the trunk manually. I lift up one side and have someone lift the other side. It's very heavey. Is this a No, No? It was like this when I got the car. I understand you are trying to help. I have NO clue how it should be or what should happen. Someone must have taken something apart because I can pick up the top manually. I have the manual's. That information helps a little. I should not be able to lift the trunk up manually. Something has to be connected back and I need to start from there. Is that what your saying?
Now you have me thinking.

Thanks
Aj

[Aj live]

Oh, I could never fix it myself. Someone gave me a contact and I will call them today. That's what i really needed.

[RAVEN]

With the manual and a general auto repair shop, the top could be fixed, all depending on the amount of working existing parts you have currently.
It would appear the lift cylinders have been disconnected, providing you manual operation.
This makes access a lot easier, and makes checking the components very simple, which is half the battle.
Do you have any mechanical or electrical abilities, where you can check some items?
Just trying to save you an expense!
The system consists in simple terms of A) Hydraulics, B) Control Circuits, C) Operational Power Circuits
The hydraulics is a simple hose set with a pump and fluid. No leaks or blown hoses or pump----one problem done
Control circuit------ Relays and contact switches need to verify
Operational Power Circuits---Trace wires and make sure power gets to where it is suppose to go.----

Manual shows the circuits and an Ohmmeter tells you points to check A to B to verify wires are good

You can do it!!! with the help of a friend or two, take a Saturday and try!!!!!!!

[Aj live]

Wow. Thank you very much. That at least gives me the information as to what's involved and I should know that anyway. I just found someone that will take on the job for me in Spring Valley ca. He was telling me the pricing on some of the parts. Crazy. Last question. Any suggestions on the best place to order the parts?
My advice. If your friend needs money and he gives you his car for collateral and tell you he will buy it back.
21 years later. Cant believe he is still my friend and he still dont have money.

Thanks everyone for there help. I am learning fast.

Aj

[RAVEN]

Parts are available from any Thunderbird parts supplier, with time, and a deep pocket on some items.
If you find that several relays that control the top function steps (located behind the seat) are faulty, consider replacing all of them.

[Herb66]

Greetings:
Does anyone know if there has been a solid state replacement made to replace our top relays?
I read a while back that another member was experimenting.
My top closed, but I had to remove fluid from cylinders to get it back up before it rained!

Thank you

[apines]

Does anyone know if there has been a solid state replacement made to replace our top relays?
I read a while back that another member was experimenting.

That was me. I have some available. The details are in this thread:
http://www.vintagethunderbirdclub.net/p ... =5&t=16767

[Herb66]

Can you send me a paypal invoice?
TY

[RAVEN]

Before purchasing a electronic replacement, you need to verify the fault with the existing top system.
If the deck cylinder pins are removed, you are able to lift the lid and get in and observe the failure point, then correct the problem. Then replace the old mechanical relays and install the NEW electronic control system.

[apines]

Hi, all,
I've had some requests so I had some more top controllers built up. They're improved a little in that now the relay board sets are potted in epoxy to make them more resistant to liquids and such. It still comes with everything you need -- two relay board sets, one remote control, cables for the remote, fasteners, and instructions. The relay board sets mount to the existing relay mounting plates so you need to have those. If anyone wants a set send me a PM.

[webrown]

I would like to buy your product

[apines]

PM sent.

[66bigblock]

I have a 1966 Q convertible with a top the does not work. Can anyone recommend a repair shop or individual in upstate NY (Albany - Buffalo) that can repair this top less bird? Many Thanks!