Convertible top latch motor access?

cashman · 03-23-2013, 09:06 AM

I am trying to trouble shoot a very minor issue. My convertible light will occasionally come on while the top is closed. This started after taking my car to DE's so I am guessing I have stressed a micro switch out of alignment. I currently think the issue is in the microswitch in the locking mechanism. I have checked the transmission switches and see no issue there. How do you access this part? This is when I usually make a minor problem into a major problem by breaking something. FYI - Top works fine. I have no issues. I am just trying to keep the light off when the top is closed. Picture lifted from Rennlist

john walker's workshop · 03-23-2013, 10:57 AM

open the top and remove the inside header cover. check the price on those things before you decide to tear into them.

cashman · 03-23-2013, 11:07 AM

Does the head cover just pop off? Is it held on by clips? I also have the plastic hand grips. There is a rubber nub on them. Is there a screw under the rubber nub and does it just pry off with a screw driver? I dont want to force anything (and do damage).

kidrock · 03-23-2013, 12:03 PM

it's been awhile since I've removed the head cover, but there's really nothing there to screw up or damage. IIRC, there's about 4 easily accessed sheet metal screws, the 2 hand cups, and about 4 door panel clips. Firm grip, remove gently.

I priced those damn microswitches about 4 years ago. WOW. First, they're Lucas switches (great, huh?) Second, I think they're about $120 each. I did some homework and found some for around $70 each...I think they also have a Jaguar application for similar years.

john walker's workshop · 03-23-2013, 12:18 PM

if i remember right, you can leave the hand grips in place.

cashman · 03-23-2013, 01:10 PM

Well, damage done. Yes you should leave the hand grips in place (damaged the two retainer pins. Would have been better to leave them). The headliner is held on by clips that once the top is in the down postion you can pop them up (vertically) with a screw driver or cc. I started to seperate the gear top from the motor and decided last minute not to go further. I do know the replacement cost of these motors and decided the intermittent red light is not worth the hassle. I was questioning how everything was going to go back together (correctly) and decided to go no further. Thanks for the input.
Mark

kidrock · 03-23-2013, 06:24 PM

Cashman: IIRC, there was a thread many months ago where someone had a similar issue. Although I have never accessed mine, there is supposed to be a "brain" or main control box for our Cabbies that is located beneath the front passenger kick panel. Just like so many other electronic parts in our cars, these boxes supposedly suffer dirt and oxidation issues like our light trigger switches, mirror switches, seat switches etc.

I don't believe that the locking motors are the cause of your issue, unless they are not locking fully...probably either the Lucas "limit switches", or an issue in the brain box. It might be worth the hour or 2 to access that brain box to ensure everything is sanitary....just like how we are so vigilant about all our goddam grounding points.

This is just my opinion. FWIW, I have the same exact issue as you. I've just been too lazy to chase it down. I just open the top a little bit, then re-close it....light goes out.

I'll get around to it...someday.

AVDCAV · AVDCAV's Garage

Your problem had nothing to do with the motors . It is the micro switches
On the top.close the top and stick some non sharp edged items lime a blank
Cd or alike. You will get a sence of the gap that is causing your problem.
With the top closed you adjust the rear arms to give the forward travel
To trip the micro switch. I'll send you the manual if you dont have it.

cashman · 03-24-2013, 09:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AVDCAV

Your problem had nothing to do with the motors . It is the micro switches
On the top.close the top and stick some non sharp edged items lime a blank
Cd or alike. You will get a sence of the gap that is causing your problem.
With the top closed you adjust the rear arms to give the forward travel
To trip the micro switch. I'll send you the manual if you dont have it.

So your saying its not the latch motor microswitch but the plastic tab microswitch? I'll take you up on the manual offer. PM sent. Thank you!