'99 F355 Convertible top help

I've had all sorts of issues with my top (mine is also a 99 355S). I decided to convert it to manual. One because I drive it mostly with top down, and two because it's not that hard to do it manually. I'm quite happy now and I was super frustrated with the electronic issues. My 2 cents...

 

I currently have that issue with mine. I don't know if I let the fluid get too low and, either...

a) the left ram didn't extend/retract properly and it bent the frame
b) air got in the system and is not fully retracting the cylinder

I can manually assist the fork to mate with the pin (as a temporary measure) to get the roof up until I figure out what's wrong.

If you made sure the first rib (from the window) went up (as the roof was coming down), you shouldn't need the elastics.

Always make sure that the engine is running so that the hydraulic motor/pump can run at the correct speed/pressure.

 

It would be wonderful to know how to do this! Many have said it’s impossible but obviously it’s doable. Any insights?

 

Many? I haven't heard of anyone saying it's impossible. There are videos on YouTube showing people who have done it and how to do it.

 

I have seen in paperwork for cars that were serviced when a shop would bleed or replace the Convertible Top Fluid that they bleed it multiple times over several days. I personally have not done it, my top works......awkwardly like all tops, so the car is in my garage covered with the top down and as the weather changes it will go up etc. Typically, in most convertibles you would leave the top up, but I think this is an exception.

 

my local mechanic here in NorCal has done it many times. But I really don’t know the details. I can connect you to him if you’d like