F355 Spider power top problems...arrggh

could be one of the many micro switches that trigger the closing sequence not sending a signal to the hydraulic pump.Or, a bad relay somewhere on the closing cycle.

 

Somewhere in these here archives - I think I a few other 355 spider owners wrote the definitive details around every problem that you can possibly have with the pathetic tops of the 355. Look for 355 top in the search...

And we do understand you pain

Rich

 

Yup, check them archives...probably those potentiometers on the seats. While you are at it, you should go ahead and top up the hydraulic fluid for the top too. You can get the fluid from any Jaguar shop, or so I am told. You don't want to let it run dry...and it will if you don't periodically top it up.

Here is a post from Ferrari Forum:

FAQs Answered by the Pro
Submitted by: JRV

Q: I frequently get asked what Fluid is used on 355 Spyder convertible top systems and how to fill the resivoir.
A: Ferrari Hydraulic Top Systems use Jaguar Hydrualic Top Fluid availible at any Jaguar Dealer and can be easily shipped if none are close at hand. Even though the Jag Fluid is identicle it comes with a hefty savings. To fill the resivoir without splilling it's best to use a Turkey Baster (no not your wifes from the kitchen ) one can purchase from their local supermarket and keep handy (and marked) specifically for use on car stuff.

 

I use the Mercedes fluid, about $15 a litre. Never seen one that didn't need topping off. careful to not be tempted to assist with any force, the frames twist easily!

there is a good archive about rebuilding the seat position pot.

brian

 

I removed the pump cover last month on mine ans saw that the fluid was almost gone, that explained why my hood did not respond alot of the times, either up or down.After checking for leaks i removed the front cover from the front of the pump which are held on by two allan bolts, then undid the brass nut to open the refill hole which is seen after the cover is removed. I used a light Jack oil (hydrolic)to compleatly refill the system and bleed the system by useing the emergency switch at the side. I made sure the engine was running so the pump had all the power it needed. I bleed it over two days becourse the oil has bubbles in it after two or three full motions......job done no probs at all.

 

While changing the oil and filter while over at a friends this weekend, he kindly checked my top reservoir for me, and low and behold, mine was below min. He topped it up with the Mercedes fluid to slightly over the max. line. Should be good for a while. Checking my records, it appears my reservoir has not been topped up in at least three years. Would recommend that all 355 spider owners get in the habit of checking this at least every 24 months to prevent running dry. Apparently the previous owner of my car did this and ruined one of the top "rams" to the tune of $878 for the ram, and another $340 in labor.