Convertible Top - Separation From Frame

NO:
TSB-99-42A-002

DATE:
January, 1999

MODEL:
Eclipse Spyder

SUBJECT:
TOP COVER PULLING BACK FROM # 1 BOW

PURPOSE

This bulletin contains information for repairing a condition where the top cover pulls away from the # 1 bow.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION





Some customers may complain about the top cover pulling away in the area of the # 1 bow. This gives the impression that the top cover is shrinking and makes the corner of the #1 bow visible. The top assembly or cover does not need to be replaced. The cover can be repositioned to correct this condition.

AFFECTED VEHICLES
1996-99 Eclipse Spyder Convertible

PROCEDURE

1. Open the top to approximately 250mm (1 foot) from the fully opened position.

2. Referring to section 42 of the service manual, remove the top cover retainer.





3. Remove the front rail weatherstrip and retainer according to service manual instructions.

NOTE Before removal, make sure to mark the position of the retainer for proper positioning when reinstalling the weatherstrip retainer after repair.

4. Pull off the top cover from the corner of the # 1 bow.

5. Remove the two sided tape from the top cover side flap.





6. Apply an adhesive (Quicktite(R) Super Glue Gel 82196, or Permatex(R) Superglue Gel 82191, or equivalent) to the side flap. Stretch the side flap over the # 1 bow and clamp it down with a duck billed vice grip to allow the adhesive to set up. Use clean shop rags for padding between the vice grip pliers and top cover material so that no marks are left on the fabric.

7. After the adhesive sets up (5 to 10 minutes), remove the vice grip and repeat steps 5 and 6 for the front edge.

8. Repeat procedures for the other side if necessary.





9. Reinstall the front rail retainer and weatherstrip in its original position.

10. Reinstall the top cover retainer. It may be necessary to use a mallet to flatten the retainer back into its original shape.

PARTS INFORMATION

Quicktite(R) Super Glue Gel 82196, or Permatex(R) Superglue Gel 82191, or equivalent no other parts are required for the procedures in this bulletin.




WARRANTY INFORMATION