78 911sc targa top won't come off, missing handles

[teppes]

Hi all, I'm new to my project car, a `78 911 sc Targa. The targa top needs repair and I'm trying to get the top off to send to Targa Dan in NJ. However I'm sort of stuck trying to get the top off the car. There are no handles to turn the barrel nuts. I was able to turn both nuts to the left, counter clockwise 90 degrees where it seems to stop. The top does release about 1/4 inch, but is still latched. Am I missing something? Do I need to have someone pull up on the top while I try to turn the barrel bolt another tiny amount? Is there another way to get the top off If I'm totally stuck here? Any advice and tips are welcome. Much appreciated.

[rwest]

Welcome and you’re on the right track, the latch has a spring loaded sort of safety mechanism, so you’ll need to turn them slightly more against the tension to release them. It will be easier to turn them both at the same time while pushing up on the top.

[mike sampsel]

If you get the bolt to where the top will come up some, I think you need to turn the bolt another 10-20 degrees to get the "safety catch" to release and while you are doing this get someone to pull up and then don't let it drop down again as it might catch. Seem to be tricky with just two people might need three to turn both bolts simultaneously and lift too.

Just tried mine, and it's about 90 degrees on the latches then the top will move up, and then another 10-20 degrees to get it off its claws.

[teppes]

Thank you both! I may need 3 people because one of the barrel bolts is broken and I have to use needle nose pliers on it. The other one I can use a big screwdriver on, but I can't do them both at same time! I don't think this top has been off in 17 years! 2008 is last registration date.

[mike sampsel]

Here is what the part looks like on Pelican parts: Use this part number

91156503141

[mike sampsel]

Here is the part number for a handle,
911-565-075-41-M1249

which might help some. You are going to find rebuilding your top is not gonna be cheap.

[mike sampsel]

FYI, there is a targa top for sale for $2000 on the used parts link.

Just letting you know.

https://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-911-used-parts-sale-wanted/1176564-porsche-911-targa-top.html

Cheers

Looks like it's missing a handle?

[rwest]

Since you are sending it to Dan, he should be able to set you up with a new or repaired latch and handles.

Quick note, the handles come in different lengths, so if you don’t get them from Dan, check needed length.