Top Stack (Convertable Top) - Bent Control Link
NO: TSB-99-42A-007DATE: June, 1999
MODEL: 1996-99 Eclipse Spyder
SUBJECT:
BENT TOP STACK CONTROL LINKS (STRAP KIT INSTALLATION)
PURPOSE
This bulletin contains procedures for preventing and repairing bent top stack control links. Top stack assemblies should not be replaced because of bent control links.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
A new and improved # 2 bow actuation system is now available to prevent bent top stack control links on 1996-99 Eclipse Spyder convertibles. The new system consists of a single non-elastic strap instead of the two elastic straps (one per side). The new strap kit includes a special large-flange rivet with a non-elastic strap. The current elastic straps may become elongated over time. If the elastic straps do stretch, the # 2 bow will not pull back properly during top cycling, causing the # 2 bow flipper on the control links to bend. This new non-elastic strap, which is riveted to the left side control link, will not stretch.
AFFECTED VEHICLES
1996-99 Eclipse Spyder
PROCEDURE
A. Retrofit Procedure - To PREVENT Bent Control Links. Refer to the service manual, section 42.
1. Open the top to the half-way open position.
2. Pull the headliner back slightly to gain access to the Nos. 2 and 3 bows.
3. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, CAREFULLY pry oft the elastic strap retainers and remove them from both sides of the vehicle.
4. Place a protective cover under the driver's side rail linkage to prevent flying drill chips from getting in the vehicle and in between the top cover and the headliner.
5. On the left (driver's) side control link, measure 53 mm up the # 2 bow flipper from the bottom of the actuator link as shown. Use a center punch to mark the drilling location (in the center of the link, 9 mm in from either edge).
NOTE:
The hole placement is critical for the # 2 bow to lift properly. Otherwise, it could prevent the # 2 bow from dropping or cause a delay in lifting action.
6. From inside the vehicle, drill a 5 mm (3/16 inch) hole on the center-punched mark.
7. Clean up drill chips and remove the protective cover.
8. Attach the non-elastic strap's plastic retainer (rear end) to the # 3 bow.
9. Attach the front end of the strap to the link actuator (# 2 bow flipper) at the drilled hole using the supplied rivet, as shown.
NOTE:
The strap must not be twisted and the rivet must be installed from inside the vehicle.
10. With a small hammer, lightly peen over the rivet head to make it conform to the contour of the link actuator. This prevents the rivet from fraying the strap over time.
11. Cycle the convertible top to make sure the No.2 bow is lifting when opening, and dropping when closing.
B. Repair Procedures - It the control links ARE bent
1. Replace the bent control links with a new link (hole predrilled) according to service manual procedures.
NOTE:
There is no part number change between the original and new parts. If the original-style part is received (no hole), use the retrofit procedure above to locate and drill a hole
2. Remove the elastic straps from each side.
3. Perform steps # 8 - 11 from the Retrofit Procedures (section A) of this bulletin in order to attach the new strap.
4. Inspect and repair any other components which may have been damaged as a result of this condition. (Types of related damage: stay pad staples pulled out, listing strips pulled loose, and dual lock separation).
NOTE:
Top assembly should not be replaced. Replace and/or repair the damaged components only.
5. Cycle the top to confirm proper operation.
PARTS INFORMATION
WARRANTY INFORMATION