Convertible Top Latch: Service and Repair
Replacing the latches and locks
Note! Before starting work, see Preparations before work Preparations Before Work.
Replacing the front latch
Removing the front latch
Set the convertible top to the position illustrated.
Ignition off.
Make a note of the anti-theft radio code.
Disconnect the battery negative lead.
Remove:
- the textile outer roof. See Replacing the textile roof Replacing the Textile Roof
- the cover on the front cross member
- the connector for the micro-switches. Cut off the tie straps
- the drive wire secured using a splined joint
- the textile headlining. See Replacing the textile roof Replacing the Textile Roof
- the weatherstrip for the front side window. See Replacing weatherstrips Service and Repair.
Carefully remove the bonded upholstery from the front side member.
Note! Always use new upholstery on the side members.
Remove:
- the 2 screws directly under the upholstery
- the 2 screws on the side of the side member
- the 2 pins for the latch assembly.
Move the latch forwards. Fold it up at the rear edge and pull it back.
Replace the latch.
Installing the front latch
Install in reverse order.
Use new tie straps for the wiring.
Replacing the rear latch
Removing the rear latch
Position the cover as illustrated.
Lift up the cover manually.
Remove:
- the connectors for the micro-switches and the potentiometer
- the tie strap
- the micro-switch
- the nut for the lower mounting on the gas strut
- the drive wire for the rear latch (splined joint).
Note! The drive shaft must not rotate during replacement.
Remove:
- the 4 screws for the mounting.
Replace the rear latch.
Installing the rear latch
Install in reverse order.
Adjusting the rear latch
Position the cover as illustrated. Do not lock the cover.
It should be possible to lift the cover without affecting the rear latches.
Remove:
- the cover side piece. See Replacing, adjusting and emergency opening of the cover Replacing, Adjusting and Emergency Opening of the Cover
- the drive wire for the rear latch. See Replacing the wires Replacing the Wires.
Hint: The front edge of the lock catch and the edge of the tension bow lock side piece must be parallel in the engagement position
Measure the distance to the lock as illustrated.
The distance must be the same on both sides of the engagement position.
The distance from the top of the side piece for the cover to the lock should be approximately 22 mm from the cover.
If necessary, adjust the drive shaft for the rear latches.
Replacing the lock, cover
Removing the lock, cover
Set the convertible top to the position illustrated.
Ignition off.
Make a note of the anti-theft radio code.
Disconnect the battery negative lead.
Mark up the position (using a marker pen) of the lock. See Preparations before work Preparations Before Work.
Remove:
- the tie straps
- the connector.
Remove:
- the 3 screws for the side piece on the lock
- the 2 screws for the lock on the cover
- the micro-switch. See Replacing and adjusting micro-switches Replacing and Adjusting Micro-Switches.
Release the strut so that it is in neutral position.
Move the cog half (A) towards the catch section. Lift the catch section and slide the cog half forward until the wire is released.
Remove:
- the nut for the wire sleeve
- the lock.
Replace the catch.
Installing the lock, cover
Screw the sleeve to the lock with the nut. Set the lock nut to the same position as when it was removed.
Install:
- the new lock on the wire. Tension the strut approximately 30 mm before the cog half (A) engages
- the micro-switch. See Replacing and adjusting micro-switches Replacing and Adjusting Micro-Switches
- the 2 screws for the lock
- the 3 screws for the side piece on the lock.
Operate the convertible top manually. See Emergency operation Emergency Operation.
Check whether the locks click at the same time when opening and locking the left and right-hand sides.
Ensure that locks are positioned in the same way. If not, rotate one of the locks and try again.