Is there a manual override for 2001 360 spider top ? | FerrariChat
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Is there a manual override for 2001 360 spider top ?

Discussion in '360/430' started by Crazyfcar, Oct 11, 2017.

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  1. Crazyfcar

    Crazyfcar Rookie

    Sep 21, 2017
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    James Candelmo
    #1 Crazyfcar, Oct 11, 2017
    As the title suggests, I'm looking to open the exterior body parts that enclose the convertible top well. The car was involved in an incident where the top frame was damaged (It looks from the parts I received that the top unlatched at speed) and I need to repair it but can't seem to figure out how to open the well to gain access.

    Currently my convertible top frame is not installed in the car and I was told by the previous owner that they unplugged something behind the drivers seat that allows the car to start without the top mechanism installed, maybe bypassing some sort of security feature.

    On a side note, when I open the drivers door, I can hear pumps running and it lasts a good 15 - 20 seconds or so, I don't think this is normal and was wondering if anyone could comment on what they think may be gong on here.

    Thanks, Jim
     
  2. irix

    irix Karting

    Aug 28, 2015
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    J.B
    #2 irix, Oct 12, 2017
    If your 360 is one with the F1 gear and not a manual shifter hearing a pump running is total normal and a good sign. Maybe 20 sec. is a bit long but the system have to been for preparing that you would like to engage a gear and for that task some preasure is needed. So the pump starts working when you try to opening the driver door.

    Regards,
    Joerg
     
  3. hessank

    hessank Formula 3
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    #3 hessank, Oct 12, 2017
    Jim behind the driver's seat are the Capote top ECU as well as Fuses 84, 85 & 86 that are associated with operation of the top
    Maybe he unplugged the ECU but I am guessing here.
     
  4. Crazyfcar

    Crazyfcar Rookie

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    James Candelmo
    #4 Crazyfcar, Oct 12, 2017
    Thanks Joerg, I didn't think of that and yes my car is an F1 trans. Good news on that front, I thought it was the conv top pumps cycling and working when they shouldn't be. Just thought it was strange it is triggered by the exterior drivers door latch. Thanks, I appreciate the reply.
     
  5. Crazyfcar

    Crazyfcar Rookie

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    James Candelmo
    #5 Crazyfcar, Oct 12, 2017
    Ok, understood. I guess I have to remove the panels to take a closer look.

    Can I safely assume that getting the body panels to open for access to the well cannot be done manually somehow ?
     
  6. Stout

    Stout Formula Junior

    May 9, 2013
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    Victor
    #6 Stout, Oct 12, 2017
    Opening the top on a 360 without power is covered in the owners manual. It is not difficult at all but does take two people as the cover flexes if you grab it on just one side. And then one to hold the cover open while the other pulls the top up or down. The tool to unlatch the front locking latches is in the tool kit, but a flat blade screwdriver will get the job done. Be careful of the flaps. They may need to be synchronized when you get the top repaired.

    A partially open top will not interfere with the operation of the car. The car will start, run, and drive with the top partially open. You do get a warning on the dash that the top is not fully open or closed. No need to disconnect anything.
     
  7. Crazyfcar

    Crazyfcar Rookie

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    James Candelmo
    #7 Crazyfcar, Oct 12, 2017
    Thanks for the response, unfortunately, this car, as with so many that I've seen for sale through auction sites, didn't come with the owner's manual or any books for that matter. It is also missing the tools and beautiful leather pouches that come with the car, along with the spare tire.

    This car was a total loss and the insurance company probably wrote a check to the owner and he robbed anything that wasn't bolted down on the car before they picked it up. Seems to be routine with these cars.

    Is there an online shop manual or does anyone have the instruction sheets for this particular job. I also wouldn't mind buying a work shop manual online or on CD is available. I have plenty more projects to complete on this car and hope to contribute back to the forum with my repairs instead of just asking for help.

    Thanks, Jim
     
  8. Stout

    Stout Formula Junior

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    #8 Stout, Oct 12, 2017
    JoeTSI likes this.
  9. Crazyfcar

    Crazyfcar Rookie

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    James Candelmo
    #9 Crazyfcar, Oct 12, 2017
    Thank you so very much. You probably wouldn't be surprised but when I called the local Ferrari Dealership today, the service adviser stated that after speaking with his tech, he was told that there is no possible way to open the top mechanism manually.

    Are there any sources that you would recommend for a complete workshop manual on the 2001 360 spider that is in depth so I don't have to constantly bother the guys on this forum ? I've seen online pdf files for sale for the "service" workshop but am not clear how in depth it may be and need one that goes in detail, especially with diagrams showing the convertible top and how it disassembles and reassembles.

    Thanks, Jim
     
  10. Stout

    Stout Formula Junior

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    #10 Stout, Oct 12, 2017
    As far as I know, the service manual does not cover top disassembly. Just removal and installation. The parts manual does cover the individual parts. Google is your friend.
     
  11. Crazyfcar

    Crazyfcar Rookie

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    #11 Crazyfcar, Oct 13, 2017
    Thanks for all of your help, I truly appreciate it.
     
  12. Stev-o

    Stev-o Karting

    Sep 18, 2020
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    Stev-o de Italiano!
    #12 Stev-o, Feb 1, 2024
    I'm basically in the same boat as Jim, my top started going going back and then stopped and started leaking fluid. Our car did not come with a manual, and my computer did not like the link above, stated it was corrupt [I had to shut it down].

    Jim or anyone else - have you manually put the top down? If yes, can you give any advice?

    Thanks
     
  13. GogglesPisano

    GogglesPisano F1 Rookie
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    #13 GogglesPisano, Feb 1, 2024
    The locks and movement are all hydraulically actuated so there's not an easy way to do it. It's easy to cycle once the lid is up, but to get the lid up is a different story.

    My guess is that one of your pistons leaked out and now the pump has no pressure. I'd remove the rear side panel behind the passenger to access the pump mechanism and check the fluid level. Refill to halfway up the inspection window with Pentosin CHF-11S which is readily available at O'Reilly's in a green can and is what is prescribed for the fluid. That should give you enough juice to at least get it open and service the leaky piston. It may take a bit for the new fluid to cycle through.
     
  14. Stev-o

    Stev-o Karting

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    #14 Stev-o, Feb 1, 2024
    Yes, fluid started leaking and the top is slightly open so I just want to put it down and drive the car! I feel if I just add fluid it will just continue to leak and not do any good.

    Has anyone put it down manually??!!!
     
  15. GogglesPisano

    GogglesPisano F1 Rookie
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    #15 GogglesPisano, Feb 1, 2024
    I would avoid cycling it empty or leaking just for pleasure drives as you'll have to raise it again to get the pistons out. If it's not fully closed, you're in a good position to get your pistons out and send them off for rebuild. The hydraulic fluid can ruin your rear plastic and other things if it sits.

    There is an emergency close procedure. https://www.manualslib.com/manual/467148/Ferrari-F430-Spider.html?page=67

    You can see it's not a straightforward procedure to operate without the hydraulics.
     
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