I have a leak issue with my convertible top pump. I haven't worked on one before so I thought I’d ask questions first……â€First, do no harmâ€.
The top goes up and down smoothly and quickly but there is oily moisture on the driver’s side rear floor. I haven’t removed the motor/pump yet, but the leak appears to originate at the “T†where the lines to the cylinders connect. The easiest fix would be to tighten the nut on the “Tâ€, but I’m usually not that lucky.
Are the motor/pumps serviceable with some repair -“O†ring - seal kit? If so, would someone please recommend a seller.
What is the name/brand or type of the working fluid? The leaked fluid is clear â€" pale yellow and fells like oil rather than silicone.
If I replace the pump do I have to flush the system?
Am I making unnecessarygrief for myself by trying to repair rather than replacing the pump?
Thanks,
Ralph
Ralph,
If the fluid is on the driver's side rear floor, I think you need to take the back seat out as well as the side upholstered panel and take a look at the top cylinder and the lines going to it.
I think a leaky motor or line at the motor would leave fluid in the well area. If it's running down to the floor from the top motor and it's coming from a line, I would replace the lines on both sides with some new parts from Hydro Electric in Florida, http://www.hydroe.com. They sell line kits, pumps, and cylinders and are very informed on the type of fluid used for your year.
Brian
Hi Brian,
Thanks for the response. The car is under restoration and stripped of all upholstery and paint so whatever is leaking is clearly evident. It wasn’t there last week when I lowered the top. However I noticed it late Friday afternoon, - with great disgust, - and figure why ruin my weekend by starting to dismantle it. I did feel around the pump case and the oil appears to be coming from the pump body where the “T†for the two lines enter the case. I’ll do a thorough inspection Monday to determine exactly what’s going and where. It sounds like replacing the pump is the safest easiest way to go. I certainly don’t want a leak with new upholstery.
Thanks again,
Ralph
Ralph,
The case separates and there is the pump side, and the motor side. I believe there is a rubber O ring type seal where they go together. Could also be coming from the fill hole.
You may want to consider replacing the lines and the pump while the car is torn down. The cylinders usually last forever if the car wasn't stored outside and unused for years.
Once it's done, you won't want to pull it apart to deal with a leak.
Brian