Top won't raise all the way...

[sobefun]

Help! My 2001 Boxster top will not raise all the way. This began to occur as an intermittant problem, but now it seems to have become permanent. When I attempt to raise the top, the clamshell will rise about 10 inches, then halts. I can move it back down, but when going back up, it stops at the same height. I am thinking it could be one of the microswitches. Does anyone have an idea as to what I should be looking for?

Please assist

Kevin

[1schoir]

Kevin:

On a 2001, which has the "B Version" transmissions, there are two microswitches which, in conjunction with the double relay in the relay tray in the kick panel, control the cycle of the convertible top. The two microswitches are located INSIDE the front of the driver's side (left side) transmission. Inside that transmission is a 360 degree gear which trips each of the two microswitches at the appropriate time in the cycle. You will have to remove the transmission to open it up.

Take a look at the photos and instructions at this link to remove the transmission, starting at page 20 of the Part II PDF: http://sites.google.com/site/mikefocke2/installinga'03-'04glasstopandframeona'97

Another possibility is that your double relay is faulty.

I would also double check that the guide channels in which the black plastic sliders at the bottom of the clamshell support arms ride back and forth are well lubricated. You can use Krytox or White Lithium grease for that purpose.

Regards, Maurice.

[sobefun]

Thanks Maurice... Would you mind checking the link again? I clicked on it, but recieved a "Page not found" message.

[1schoir]

Sorry. I don't know what happened to that link.

Try this link: http://sites.google.com/site/mikefocke2/thetop-itsmaintaince%26replacement

When you get to that page with the list of DIY's, select the one entitled "Installing an '03-04 Top and Frame on a '97-'02 Boxster" and then follow the page instructions I gave you earlier.

Regards, Maurice.