Topstack (Convertible Top) Latch Receiver - Changes
No.: TSB-98-42A-009DATE: October, 1998
MODEL: 1996-98 Eclipse Spyder
SUBJECT:
TOPSTACK LATCH RECEIVER CHANGES
PURPOSE
This bulletin contains repair procedures for correcting any or all of the following conditions:
^ Squeaks at the windshield header
^ Rattles at the windshield header
^ Low topstack header latch effort or looseness in the lever after it is latched
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Symptom
Some affected vehicles may exhibit a squeak and/or rattle at the windshield header. There may also be low header latch effort which cannot be corrected by J-hook adjustment.
Remedy
To correct the above conditions, replace the dowel pins on the No.1 Bow and the companion header latch receivers.
The new dowel pins have a rubber isolator. The new header latch receivers (strikers) are 3.5 mm shorter to accept the new dowel pins.
All replacement top stack assemblies produced after 2/4/98 will have the new isolator type dowel pins. Vehicles built prior to 2/4/98 will require the new header latch receivers when replacing the topstack.
AFFECTED VEHICLES
1996-98 Eclipse Spyder Convertible (built before 2/4/98)
PROCEDURE
NOTE:
Refer to Service Manual Supplement TSB-98-42A-003 for more information concerning dowel pin and latch receiver removal and replacement.
Dowel Pin Replacement Procedures
1. Unlatch the convertible top and open it to half or two-thirds open.
2. Reach between the top cover and headliner and locate the dowel pin mounting nut. With locking pliers, hold the dowel pin to keep it from spinning and remove the nut, washer and dowel pin.
NOTE:
For easier access to the dowel pin nut, you may want to remove the two headliner screws, separate the dual lock holding the headliner, and pull the headliner back slightly.
3. Install The flat washer and lock washer onto the new dowel pin isolator assembly as shown.
4. Insert the new dowel pin assembly onto the No. 1 Bow and secure it with the nut as shown. Torque the nut to 23 NM (17 ft-lbs).
! CAUTION
Hold the dowel pin's rubber bumper by hand during installation. DO NOT use any tools to hold the bumper may separate from the dowel assembly.
5. Repeat the procedure for the other side, then reattach the headliner if you removed it or pulled it back.
Latch Receiver Replacement Procedures
1. Remove the front roof rail trim. Refer to interior Trims in Section 52A of the service manual.
2. Remove both front header latch receivers. Retain the removed nuts.
3. Install the new receivers on the proper side of the vehicle. The new receivers are "directional" and not interchangeable. There is an identification mark ("L" or "R") on the top side of each receiver. make sure you install the new receivers on the proper side of the vehicle.
4. Reinstall the front roof rail trim.
NOTE:
Make sure the header weatherstrip is properly tucked behind the receiver.
5. Close and latch the convertible top. Latching effort should be more consistent. If latching effort is not consistent from side to side, refer to TSB-98-42A-003 and perform the latch J-hook adjustment.
NOTE:
A new convertible top may be difficult to latch at first. A new top should become easier to latch once the weatherstrips are set and the top cover relaxes (stretches slightly). This condition may last up 10 a week, then gradually diminish.
PARTS INFORMATION
The parts needed for this repair are available separately, or can be ordered in a kit with all necessary parts to complete both the dowel pin and header latch receiver replacement.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Dowel Pin Replacement (Both Sides)
Nature Code: 99D Cause Code: 230
Labor Operation No. 42386400 Time Allowance: 0.4 hr.
Latch Receiver (Striker) (Both Sides)
Nature Code: 99D Cause Code: 230
Labor Operation No. 42386410 Time Allowance: 0.5 hr.
Warranty Coverage: 36 months/36,000 miles.
Special Warranty Information: Normal warranty procedures apply.