For a Top Newbie: Parts needed and tools needed to fix this?

[mikey99n]

Hi everyone,

I am a complete top newbie. After spending the last two days on this forum reading through the threads here, I think I have somewhat diagnosed the problem. (pictured below)

Can you guys please tell me:

1) What this part is? I believe it's #10 on the parts image below.

2) How much and where can I get it?

3) Are there any special tools I need for the fix?

4) I am currently using one of the guides on here on how to manually open the top from the closed position, but does anyone know if there's a thread on how to fix this part?

5) Do I need to order any other parts other than part #10 (if that's the one?) It's broken on both sides.

Sorry for so many questions, but I just wanted to make sure I had all the materials necessary before I begin the fix. I need to use my car everyday and don't want to unhook the ball joints twice to put the top into service position.

Thanks everyone!!

- Mike

P.S. I have a 99' Boxster

Edited November 12, 2006 by mikey99n

[Tool Pants]

#10 on the diagram is one of the two black metal push/pull rods for the clamshell. They look like a small shock absorber. I doubt if you broke this part. You can see the right side push rod in the picture.

[4agdtym]

Looking at your pictures it is hard to tell what your fingers are holding. Is there another angle you can use for a picture. What is the part attached to? Describe the problem that results from the broken part.

[mikey99n]

Hi guys,

The part # is "4" from the diagram. Sorry for any confusions.

I am going to take pictures and write steps for this fix. (I couldn't find one anywhere).

I pretty much know what to do, but i am having a LOT of trouble removing the ball joint that holds the canvas down (since it's in the closed position)...so I can fold the top back. I have enough problems removing this ball joint when I can open the back half way.

i am trying to do what mark is doing in this thread: http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=662

It just won't come off!!! Any advice on how to remove this? I remember when I removed it before, it either comes out SUPER easy or doesn't come out at all.

Any pointers? I've spent the last hour wriggling it around and pulling whichever direction i could think of.

Thanks!

- Mike

[mikey99n]

Hi guys,

The part # is "4" from the diagram. Sorry for any confusions.

I am going to take pictures and write steps for this fix. (I couldn't find one anywhere).

I pretty much know what to do, but i am having a LOT of trouble removing the ball joint that holds the canvas down (since it's in the closed position)...so I can fold the top back. I have enough problems removing this ball joint when I can open the back half way.

i am trying to do what mark is doing in this thread: http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=662

It just won't come off!!! Any advice on how to remove this? I remember when I removed it before, it either comes out SUPER easy or doesn't come out at all.

Any pointers? I've spent the last hour wriggling it around and pulling whichever direction i could think of.

Thanks!

- Mike

Solution: Mutilated the clip that held the black knob to the clamshell. TIP: Make sure you put a piece of towel between the black knob and your car, because as soon as you take the clip off, that black knob will fling backwards and potentially damage something since it's under very high pressure. bought replacement clips for .77 cents each.