2001 Top motor switch query

[pcmpete]

My top started playing up on me.

I went to put the top down, the top folded and the clamshell closed but the dash light stayed on. I thought this was odd, so I tried to close the top again and the clamshell would only open a few inches. I played with the open/close switch a few times until I got the top fully closed, but the dash light stayed on.
Brought the car home to look at it closer. When trying to open the top again (service mode) it would really struggle and I could here a pulsing sound from the passenger side.

After looking and looking I noticed that the two sides where not aligned any more. So I re-aligned them with my drill and my metal ruler.

Closed the top, still hearing the pulsing sound from the passenger side, then a popping noise from that side as the clamshell closed.

The two transmission are out of alignment again.


The pushrods are still in place but one thing I did notice is that my motor does not have a switch/lever. Is it supposed to have one? Is the motor over driving the cables.

The top was working great until this.

Before I start throwing $1300 worth of parts at this to try and fix this I need your advice........

[pcmpete]

My top motor definitely does not have a switch.

I swapped the two inners of the cables over and problem is still on the passenger side.
I disconnected both cables from the motor and the motor seems to turn fine in both directions.
With the cables disconnected from motor I can turn it by hand on the drivers side but passenger side is impossible to move.

I am leaning towards the fact the transmission of that side is damaged

Can they be reconditioned or do I have to crack open the wallet?

Thanks

[harryrcb]

I don't know of anyone that reconditions those. your best bet is to get a used one, I have both sides available from a working car. Or really open your wallet and buy new. I you are interested send an email to harryrc1@gmail.com

[pcmpete]

I got a replacement transmission (used) but the one I got was 986-561-180-01 but I need the 986-561-180-03 version.

I took my broken transmission apart to see what was wrong with it. I now see why these things are so expensive. 6 or 7 cnc metal gears and one plastic gear. Guess what, the plastic gear was cracked and some teeth missing.

Where would someone find a replacement plastic gear????????????????????
I know my chances are slim but I got to ask.