355 Spider top issues

It looks like it's getting bound up on something . Do NOT force it.

Have you tried when opening to push the middle bar up with your right hand?

Also, have you checked that the hydraulic pump is not low on oil?

ketel

 

This should do it....elastics need to be changed, I have the same problem, I use my hand every time and it works fine.

As for coming down when closing it. it looks fine....the rest of the work is done by hand.

 

Looks like what mine was doing. Had the bands replaced and it works fine (for now).

 

trestlenewport,

The terms "elastic" and "bands" refer to the same thing. The first top frame member back from the windshield has two thin black elastic bands about 1" wide, one on each side of the car against the outside edge of the top (when the top is up, you can see them). These bands loose their elastic resiliency after a few years (5-10??). Their purpose is to automatically pull this first top frame member back to its stop position before the top begins to move. If they are shot, the frame member won't be pulled back like its supposed to. Unless you manually push this member back to its stop (about 6-8" or so) before operating the top, the top will bind up. Don't operate it this way or you will risk damage to the mechanism.

So, start over and try it this way. If nothing has been damaged, it should work. There are threads on this site telling you how to properly put the top down. Here's mine....car stopped (key on or engine running...your choice) with handbrake on, both doors closed, windows up. Release the top lever and push the front of the top back manually about 12" or so until you hear a beep (both windows should automatically come down 2"). Manually push the frame member previously mentioned back to its stop (push up slightly and back). Now you are ready to push the top switch. Hold it down and the seats will go forward to their stop position and then the top will begin to go down. Hold the switch until the top is fully down. Continue to hold the switch on and the seats will automatically go back to their originally set position. That's it! Now lower the windows all the way if you want and you're off!!

Hope this helps. Good luck with your new car.

Jerry