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I have 2005 Roadster. The top doesn't stay like this. I have to hold it while opening and closing it. How can I solve this problem? Could there be a problem with hydraulic cylinders?
Thanks for help
That has nothing to do with the hydraulic system, your problem is in the spring/tensioner parts in the top frame.
Grab the file here on the forum about the top system, use the 2008 version not the 2005, as it has more detail.
I just took some of the front end of my top apart, trying to see if the tension cords that are under the web straps on both sides could be accessed without removing the front portion of the fabric top from the frame, it can't be done without removing the front section of the top from the frame. These two cords are between the front cross member and the first cross frame that the top sides into from one side. The front of the cable is attached to a spring at the front cross member. I believe they usually break at the back end, which if that's the case, they can be pulled back through the attachment hole and then a knot tied into the cord. The cord will have a little more tension on it, if it's shortened but shouldn't be a problem.
I haven't seen these cords sold anywhere, but wouldn't be to hard to create one, if the break is not towards one of the ends.
The picture shows the tension cord that's located under the stay pad (web strap).
Thanks for the excellent explanation. Is it possible to do this without removing the stay pads? Actually my stay pads are in bad condition (it has stitches on it). I also want to change the stay pads. I think stay pads are made of a material similar to seat belts. (a little thicker ) Is it possible to replace them with a new one without help? If it's not difficult, i want to do both of them. Thank you for your help.
Thanks for the excellent explanation. Is it possible to do this without removing the stay pads? Actually my stay pads are in bad condition (it has stitches on it). I also want to change the stay pads. I think stay pads are made of a material similar to seat belts. (a little thicker ) Is it possible to replace them with a new one without help? If it's not difficult, i want to do both of them. Thank you for your help.
Thanks for posting this. I've had the same problem for a year or two. I have to keep a hand on the top while raising and lowering it.
The webbing on the passenger side is torn in half and the tensioner string/cable is broken.
For the webbing strap, I had ordered this material to try to replace the webbing strap...but have never attempted to do that. From amazon.com: "Cosmos 2 Inches Wide 10 Yards Black Nylon Heavy Webbing Strap with Cosmos Fastening Strap "
Thanks for the excellent explanation. Is it possible to do this without removing the stay pads? Actually my stay pads are in bad condition (it has stitches on it). I also want to change the stay pads. I think stay pads are made of a material similar to seat belts. (a little thicker ) Is it possible to replace them with a new one without help? If it's not difficult, i want to do both of them. Thank you for your help.
Yes, you can replace both the top pads and the tension cords without help, but replacing the top pads will require you to remove the top from the frame. You can probably drill out the rivets on both sides and release the top from the front and back bows and then just side the top to the sides just enough to access the straps and tension cables.
I see that topsonline.com does sell both items. I was thinking that the cables that they sold where the cables that run through the inside of the top edges. That cable will need to be removed from the top so that you can slide it sideways. It's easy to pull out and then push back into the cable pocket on each side of the top.