Originally Posted by Don and Lynn

The convertible top on our 2005 roadster stopped working a couple weeks ago. For the purpose of this inquiry; The vehicle has always been garaged. The top has always lowered and raised properly. There is no past evidence of hydraulic fluid leaking from anywhere. The top storage compartment and trunk are very clean and have no evidence of water leakage. I have researched all the reasons and checked all the failure possibilities. I have watched the videos on the forums and Top Hydraulics website. As a result, I checked the pump reservoir and it was definitely low. I filled it with the recommended fluid and tried to lower the top. It failed to lower again. This time I noticed fluid dripping from the drain behind the passenger side rear tire. I assume that this means the pump is running, but not sure. This leak was mentioned in the Top Hydraulics video. Top Hydraulics states that this indicates that one or more of the cylinders is leaking, it is a common problem, and all will eventually leak. They currently offer to rebuild all cylinders and the pump for $1650+, and say the fix should last 30 years. We aren't in a rush to fix this and spend all this money. We have gotten very good at manually operating it (laugh). I am confident I can remove and reinstall the cylinders and pump if required. I did notice that Klaus from TH had several inputs in this forum. I don't know if he is still with them.

My questions are: 1) Has anyone had this experience, worked with Top Hydraulics, and can recommend them? 2) Are there any other better alternatives you can recommend?

Thank you for any advice you offer, Don.