soft top frustrations

The 355 top will sometimes not work if the seat switches/motors do not work properly. In that way it could be completely unrelated to the top itself, although a pump issue or fluid level could also be a possibilty. I think the seat thing is the most common reason on a 355 though.


PS- I am only relaying info my brain has collected over the years. I am not a Ferrari tech and I did NOT stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night!

 

If it's a seat potentiometer issue, then the emergency override button will put the top down for you.

If it's a low hydraulic fluid issue, then adding fluid behind your seats will fix the problem.

If the upper middle cross-bar on the soft-top is stuck down, then you'll have to push that horizontal bar up by hand when the soft top is opening right above your head.

 

Make sure it is folding up correctly.

Does the motor sound stop too or does it struggle?

Check the fluid level and any physical obstructions like the seats in the way.....etc.

 

Check to make sure when you push back the top the center rail (above your head) folds upward when it is pushed back. most of the time the rubber straps become loose and will not allow the top to fold up and the center rail gets stuck into the front header.

best regards, Jim

 

That sounds like fluid for sure. I just went through the process of adding fluid. It's not that involved to add the fluid but bleeding it takes a little effort. It's easy to check the fluid, just take the center part off between the seats. If you have never seen it, then you should learn about it.

 

+1 ....

 

you can use standars hydraulic jack oil

 

and the fluid goes through the hole that has the 13mm filler nut

 

Thats right!!!! Here is the "how to" on filling the reservoire by chaa!!!

http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showpost.php?p=136278178&postcount=25

 

Jim's advise was spot on. Topping the fluid from the min to the max will have no effect and will not require bleeding.
The elastic straps on both sides that pulls the second bow back when the header comes back have stretched and no longer pull the second bow back far enough.

Locate the elastic straps and as the header lifts up off the windshield frame, manually assist the second bow up and backwards a little. If the elastic is weak the second bow will stop short of where it needs to be and will bind the whole top assy. If you held the button too long with it in bind up it can draw air in and mis-time the main rams. If that is the case operate the top a number of times using the emergency switch and see if it comes back into time.

We make new straps for all of the Spiders when they are in for a major, its not just about T-belts. Very common problem.

Dave

 

As usual Goth and No Doubt nailed it... you guys are 355 wizards!