'56 power top trouble shooting

[Garry Barnes]

When the power top unit was removed during the frame off disassembly there was not evidence of any type of fluid drain from the hoses. There was small signs of blow-by at the top of the cylinders on each side of the upper seat cushions. It is now back in the car and before we start to play with it I wanted to be sure of what to be looking for if it doesn't work correctly. Seems odd that there was no fluid evident. What type of fluid was used if we deem it dry? It worked on two of the three stages prior to the tear-down. I have replaced the original harness so I want to be ready to trouble shoot should I need to. Thanks.
Garry

[Roy B.]

Re: '56 power top trouble shooting

I believe I was the first person to ever show off a PT in NCRS back at their start up and was questioned about it asking if I got it at PEP-Boys and added it. HA!

GM used brake fluid in all PT units. After I rebuild 't them for people I made them use Trans oil which if it leaks will not remove their paint. To set the switch's in sink is hard to explain .You can call me if you like Ca. Time 530-265=4207

(It worked on two of the three stages prior to the tear-down)

What two?

[Garry Barnes]

Re: '56 power top trouble shooting

Roy, I knew I could count on you. The car is in the shop getting it's pre-start prep. I don't know if there will be a problem, but I suspect there will be. Should there have been fluid visible when the hoses were removed or is the fluid kept in a reservoir somewhere in the system? BTW- I had to lift the deck lid and then the top would come up and the deck lid would go down. I will call you if it turns out that I need to get the switches in sinc. Thanks Roy.
Garry

[Roy B.]

Re: '56 power top trouble shooting

Reservoir is part of the motor unit and you should have had oil pour out when you disconnected the hoses. But remember as you run the unit ( first time) keep checking the oil level in the reservoir. The system is "self bleeding" so as you remove the filler screw you get air coming out.

Sound like one of the two micro-switch's for the soft top frame is out of sink if you need to open the soft top lid by hand

[Jimmy J.]

Re: '56 power top trouble shooting

Gary, Check the fluid with all cylinders retracted or you can get to much oil in the system and it will not work properly. I have a 59 with a working power top I restored my self. If I can help please contact me. I used transmission fluid my Power Top hydraulic system. Jimmy

[Garry Barnes]

Re: '56 power top trouble shooting

Jimmy,
Hopefully I won't have to worry about it. Thanks for the advice.
Garry