hsell,

when it's convenient, you should flush the hydraulic fluid. Watch out for deposits on the bottom of the reservoir and get them out. I don't think there is any urgency with your location being in Ohio.

A system that gets used frequently will create some sludge. Friction is actually fairly low in the Crossfire hydraulic cylinders, so there isn't too much metal rubbing off. If the original fluid was clear or only had a light colored dye in it, then you know it's time to flush the fluid once it turns dark.

The reason I am bringing up your location is twofold:
1) Decaying seals contaminate the system. The decay of the seals is a chemical reaction that is basically unavoidable on all Crossfire cylinders. Like most chemical reactions, it gets accelerated with heat. Thus, if you live in a hot climate, the cylinders will fail sooner. The ones that are closest to the outside of the car, where they get the warmest, will normally fail first.
2) The other factor in hot climates is that hot air holds more moisture. That is a problem for the system, unless you live in the desert. While the system is in use, the fluid level in the reservoir will change. Thus, air gets sucked in and pushed out. Hot air being sucked in can lead to condensation. Move your top hundreds of times once a day on a hot, humid afternoon, and you will clearly be collecting water in the reservoir. As I mentioned in my first post, water destroys the OEM seals. Let's put it this way: if you were in Jamaica, then I wouldn't be surprised to have you on the phone tomorrow, telling me that the OEM replacement cylinders are already failing again.

Please do not let my comments shy you away from using the top - it is generally better to use it frequently or from time to time than never. Enjoy your beautiful car!

Klaus