Can't Remove Targa Handles

kayalove · 11-08-2005, 11:32 AM

I am having problems removing the handles on my 1984 targa top. Everyone seems to indicate that this is easy to do but I have been trying for several months to get these guys out to no avail.

The latches work fine. I have tried to push, twist and pull the handles in every possible combination but nothing seems to work. I am afraid that I am going pull too hard and break something at this point.

Is there some trick I should be aware of?

K. Roman · K. Roman's Garage

I think you need to pull harder.

Bill Verburg · Bill Verburg's Garage

They do come out, but I always just leave mine in, that way I know where they are

slodave · slodave's Garage

I leave mine in as well. They stay in pretty well, but have fallen out upon top removal a couple of times.

Dave

kayalove · 11-09-2005, 07:45 AM

Do you take the handles out when they are in the locked position? Do they pull straight out or to you have turn them any? I see the pin aligned and it looks like they should just come out but they appear to be stuck.

Early_S_Man · 11-09-2005, 07:53 AM

Dissimilar metals ... probably some corrosion present if they have been left in place for months ... try some spray penetrating oil. Push in a bit before trying to remove.

M.D. Holloway · 11-09-2005, 09:04 AM

any chance of posting a pic?

kayalove · 11-09-2005, 10:18 AM

Sure I will post a pic tonight.

kayalove · 11-21-2005, 10:19 AM

After a good WD40 soaking I was able to get the handles out. I was really shocked at how hard I had to pull but all is well now.

I got a nice newbie surpise merging on to the freeway and getting hit in the face with a handle. WD40 sure makes those suckers fly out!!!