Body - Convertible Top Binding/Side Seals Damaged
NUMBER: 23-052-07GROUP: Body
DATE: December 8, 2007
SUBJECT:
Top Binds or Damaged Side Seals And I Or Flange Below Backlight Glass
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves inspecting the top for damage and replacing the right/left drive links.
MODELS:
2008 (JS27) Sebring Convertible
NOTE:
This bulletin applies to hard top and soft top convertible models.
DISCUSSION:
If the top is opened with an obstruction in the top storage area, the rear rail drive links on each side may be damaged (bent). If the drive links are damaged, the top will not operate properly (open/close/bind) and damage may be seen at the Side Seals and/or Rear Flange below backlite.
Additionally, if the top is operated with an obstruction in the top storage area, damage may be found at the luggage protector and it's switch.
DIAGNOSIS:
Inspect the following areas for damage:
a. Rear flange/seal (from side to side) below the backlight glass (Fig. 1).
b. Side seals, near intersection of middle and rear roof panel sections (Fig. 2).
c. Retainers for side seals (Fig. 2).
If damage is noted as described in a. b. or C. above, perform the Repair Procedure.
PARTS REQUIRED:
SPECIAL TOOLS/EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:
REPAIR PROCEDURE:
NOTE:
The procedures and graphics are shown for the RIGHT SIDE of the vehicle, left side is similar. Complete procedure on one side BEFORE repairing the other side.
1. Inspect the luggage protector and luggage protector switch. If the top is opened with an obstruction on the luggage protector, the tab(s) and/or the switch may also be damaged (Fig. 3). Replace damaged components as necessary.
2. Raise front of top 32 above header and support with prop rod or equivalent (Fig. 4).
CAUTION:
Do not push up on roof to insert support. This will put pressure on drive linkage.
3. Remove middle roof section side trim panels. 2 push pins secure on the bottom (Fig. 5).
CAUTION:
Pay close attention to the orientation of the existing drive link so that replacement drive link will be installed properly. Incorrect installation will bend the new drive link and possibly cause other damage.
4. Hold the replacement drive link near link on the vehicle and mark with tape to ensure proper orientation upon installation (Fig. 6).
CAUTION:
Remove only one drive link at a time.
5. Remove the bolt attaching the front of the drive link (Fig. 7).
6. Protect all areas with vinyl type fender covers or equivalent (Fig. 7):
a. Inside of rear (3rd) roof panel.
b. Outside of middle (2nd) roof panel.
c. Body paint from door to rear of vehicle.
d. Rear seats and rear shelf area.
e. Interior of trunk area including; luggage protector, trunk floor, folding top linkage, cylinders and hinges located near or below the drive link(s).
CAUTION:
Wear eye protection and gloves for next step.
7. Grind the head (toward inside of vehicle) off of the rivet attaching the rear of the drive link (Fig. 8).
8. Using a small pry bar, remove the drive link from the rivet shoulder (Fig. 9).
9. Install a piece of masking tape on outside of rivet to bracket, (this will prevent the rivet from spinning while grinding and keep the rivet from falling down inside of vehicle) (Fig. 10).
10. Using cut-off tool, grind shoulder of rivet flush to bracket in the same manner as and shown in (Fig. 8).
11. Tap rivet out of bracket using small punch.
12. Remove tape and rivet together.
13. Paint any surface around hole that may have been touched with the grinder with black rust inhibitor.
14. Install new link paying very close attention to the correct orientation marked on link in Loosely install front shoulder bolt into threaded bracket.
15. Install the rear link mounting shoulder bolt through link, then through bracket on vehicle from the inside out and install nut. Ensure link is properly situated on shoulder of bolts at both ends (Fig. 11).
Torque both bolts to 18 N.m (159 in. lbs.).
16. Repeat this procedure for the other side of the vehicle.
POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.
TIME ALLOWANCE:
FAILURE CODE:
Disclaimer:
This bulletin is supplied as technical information only and is not an authorization for repair.