355 vert top doesnt go down properly. anyone know a fix? | FerrariChat

355 vert top doesnt go down properly. anyone know a fix?

Discussion in '348/355' started by agdetail, Feb 7, 2014.

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  1. agdetail

    agdetail Rookie

    Jun 30, 2012
    3
    looked all over the net.

    tank is toped off, motors are working fine, seats move forward when i hit the switch.

    when the top goes down it doesnt go down properly and was wondering if anyone else have had this happen and found a fix.

    <img src="https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/t1/1907550_10202034687961863_867082446_n.jpg"/>

    <img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/t1/1560408_10202034688121867_87174182_n.jpg"/>

    <img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/t1/1625716_10202034688481876_1532801577_n.jpg"/>

    <img src="https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1795682_10202034688641880_2008599758_n.jpg"/>
     
  2. drbob101

    drbob101 F1 Rookie
    Owner Silver Subscribed

    Nov 26, 2012
    3,821
    Tinton Falls, NJ
    Full Name:
    Bob Ferraris
    Your picture links aren't working. Try posting them again
     
  3. brian.s

    brian.s F1 Rookie
    Professional Ferrari Technician

    Nov 3, 2003
    3,809
    Midwest
    Full Name:
    Brian
    Search option will answer all.

    Probably the elastic syndrome.
     
  4. sevminasyan

    sevminasyan Formula 3

    Jun 24, 2008
    1,156
    Glendale, CA
    Full Name:
    Steve
    If the top moves back a bit bu then stops, it could be because the fabric strap that is attached to the middle ribcage is not doing it job. The strAp loosens up over time and fails to pull the middle rib back enough to release stress. Whe this happens the pump works and at this point u hear the pump whining because it's trying to do it's job but the mechanism of the roof is not releasing the stress on the frame. Try pulling the middle brace/rib back a bit while opening the roof and u will see how it works. This is the simple scenario compared to if the hydraulic system has air trapped in it and it needs to be bled and the pistons synchronized. Still doable but takes time. I have reraly seen the pumps go bad on these cars and I had 7 of them.

    Hope this helps
    Let us know
     
  5. Challenge

    Challenge Formula 3

    Sep 27, 2002
    2,024
    PA
    Full Name:
    Kevin
    #6 Challenge, Feb 9, 2014
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    This is the classic issue of the leading frame bar/bow not moving properly and binding the entire operation. The rear section of the 355 top should not drop down behind the seats before the "front" section (the part that covers the occupants' heads) has fully retracted behind the seats. Your pictures indicate otherwise.

    My advice:
    * Close the top completely and start over.
    * Start by unlatching the top from the windshield frame.
    * With your left hand, gently push the header rail towards the REAR of the car while simultaneously using your right hand to push the first bar straight UP. (This will compensate for the lack of strength from your old elastic straps).

    See the attached pic directly from the 355 sales brochure.
    Image Unavailable, Please Login
     
  6. agdetail

    agdetail Rookie

    Jun 30, 2012
    3
    the left and right tension straps was replaced.
     
  7. WATSON

    WATSON Two Time F1 World Champ
    Owner Rossa Subscribed

    Sep 9, 2010
    23,926
    WI
    #8 WATSON, Feb 11, 2014
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    Bingo.... help that header bar back and that might improve things...

    ...and the first pic from the OP recent set with an added arrow showing the problem area:
    Image Unavailable, Please Login
     
  8. agdetail

    agdetail Rookie

    Jun 30, 2012
    3
    that trick worked. thanks.

    called up ferrari and they said the new elastic was probably no cut correctly. annoyingly they still have to charge me to fix the problem but at a reduced price.

    ill make sure to test to roof before i bring it home this time.
     

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