Embarrassing Convertible Top question - new cab owner

[LI911]

I have my new to me 2000 996 cabriolet home and wanted to put the top down today. The car did not come with an owners manual and I'm not sure how it operates.

I see a button on the dash that looks to be the "top down" switch. Do I just press that button or do I need to do something first (i.e unclip something, etc...) I see what appears to be a clip of sorts on the headliner/windshield but I'm not able to move it at all.

Any guidance is greatly appreciated!

[LI911]

I figured it out...just the button is needed....now I wish I could take this post down

[FPB111]

Don't be afraid to ask "dumb" questions. It is the best way to find answers.
Early 996 had to be stopped and have the parking brake on. Later 2000? on could be operated up to 30 miles per hour. Not the best thing to do if it is windy. A gust could break the top arms, frame etc...
Join Renntec.org that site has a very good tech section with copies of some manuals, TSBs and DIYs. Rennlist.com is another good resource for the watercooled cars.

[jwgn777]

I think pulling the vehicle over if possible and pulling up the parking brake to close the top is the way to go. I have seen other people get into trouble the other way. LOL

[LI911]

Thanks guys, I didn't realize it could be opened/closed while underway (thought you need a smarttop module or something).

[barlowdo]

My 996 2001 needs the parking brake on.
Another parked way to raise lower the top is via the door key. Just turn and hold for a few seconds and then the noisy process starts .

I need to locate where to lube the mechanism.

On another note. As a newby I thought my key needed to programmed to open the front trunk. But I found out you just have to press and hold the key fob trunk button for a few seconds.