993 Cabrio Top to Manual Mode - Need Help

bleachii · 07-19-2021, 02:01 PM

Hello,

My wife and I have a new to us 1998 Cabriolet. We spent the requisite money to get the top overhauled with new cables, transmissions, etc. Reputable shop. It works much better but the issue now is closing the top. It will close 95% but that last 5% where you need the latches to engage and motors to finish the job it gets stuck. I then have to do the remove the trim, manual screwdriver method to finish the job. Obviously no fun.

We think the issue now is a top that has shrunk over 20+ years and makes it hard to close. The top is in excellent condition and replacing is rather expensive as I'm sure everyone knows. Since we have the rest of the system in working order I'm not opposed to switching it to manual mode at this point.

I can't find any good write ups on how to switch. I know I have to loosen 2 bolts (19mm?) behind the seats 2-3 revolutions to disengage the transmissions. Any other tricks to make it easier to re-align down the road if it gets switched back to automatic mode? Do I need to photo or mark anything before I loosen the bolts? Does it matter? Any words of wisdom before I do something stupid?

p911dad · p911dad's Garage

bleachii, it seems like the shop you paid all the money to should have some answers. Also, check out Heidi and Franny's Garage on You Tube, they have a few very helpful 993 cabrio videos. Further, check out the Rennlist site, they have a very active 993 forum, lots of info there. Search cabrio top in the 993 forum. Good luck!

bleachii · 07-20-2021, 03:53 PM

Thank you Sir. My shop may assist with switching to manual mode but I kind of wanted to see how it works before make the change. Shops get weird when you want to move away from 'spec'

I do watch Heidi and Franny but I will review their videos, that's a good idea.

Will check over on Rennlist as well, not sure why I haven't been over there as much as here.

bleachii · 07-21-2021, 09:24 AM

P911dad,

I found the thread and YouTube video you referenced at Rennlist. Heidi and Franny as you mentioned and they are focused on the area where I have an issue. I'm going to perform the test as she describes but I believe my motors are good. I may have issues with my switches however. Lots of great info she shares.

Video name for future reference:
Porsche 993 Convertible Top Latch Motor Repair