Wierd problem with the convertible top.

The pump is supposed to be self-bleeding, but isn't it sealed? How does the air get out? Should I try with the screw plug removed?

 

Replacing the secondary pistons only takes lifting the cover a little while in the 90 degree position. Only disassembly is unfastening the piston, and that is removing a pin with an E-clip holding it in place. I'll have to check for pinched lines, but those hoses are pretty thick. I think it would take a lot to pinch them.

 

OMG! I got it to work perfectly this evening! After the discussions above about checking the oil level, which I have been checking regularly, I decided to go out and check it again this evening as I had tried cycling the top in the afternoon to no avail, but didn't check the fluid level at that time. This time it was at the bottom of the bullseye with the top stowed. OK, I put more oil in and tried again. The top opened up to the position where the cover was closing, like in the video I posted, and then it came to a stop. I went to check the oil level again, with the engine running, and the tank was EMPTY! I think the lines were draining back into the tank so that when I checked it before it seemed that the oil level was good. This time when I shut off the engine the tank filled only about a half an inch with oil. Filled it to the correct level again and the top worked perfectly! Cycled it a couple of times, checked again and the oil level was at the bottom of the circle. Topped it up again, cycled it a couple of times, checked the level and again it was at the bottom of the circle. This time there was oil dripping down from above the pump. Looked for the leak and discovered the main piston on the passenger side is leaking badly. I guess that means removing the entire cartridge to get that piston out. I think those are the only pistons that can't be removed with the top assembly in the car.

At least I know the problem know. Thanks so much for everyone's advice and help here! The people on this forum are the best!

 

Just read priericky128's post on how to remove the main cylinders without taking the entire roof out! Looks like it's possible!