1 step forward but 2 steps back.
Got the new latch driveshafts from Usel (the olde ones are totalled) installed and working and all the trim back in place but now for some reason I'm having issues installing the lower control arm bolt on the hinges (I've done it successfully before) now the arms just won't come close - it's frustrating but I guess I'll get there. The roof has fought me all the way so far.:-(
Do the hydraulic hoses have to be fitted in a certain order on the pump housing? I see the numbers 11 and 12 are etched into the steel where the bolt goes in - I'm wondering if 11 (top line on the hinge) is to be fitted closest to the pump housing or if it makes no difference? Same goes for 13 and 14. Any advice?
All these shenanigans have been caused by a leak on hose 12. I thought I would relocate the motor and install new hoses with stainless steel joints etc as well as better quality hoses but I'm having some doubts. The new lines 11 and 12 are ok but 13 and 14 are noticeably shorter than the oem and combined with their extra girth and less flexibility look to be putting a strain on the hinge joints and somewhat interfering with the roof mechanism plus there is no increased angle on one them as per oem. The pump and motor, hinges and all the original lines are completely rust free so I've given 13 and 14 5 coats of Hammerite to help protect them and will reinstall. An expensive lesson. I'll keep the new ones as spares.
Should the hinges be filled with fluid before installing them or can the pump fill them? I'm wary of pre-filling them and having oil drip on the roof while fitting.
A note of caution for anyone removing the hinges following the video below - if you have hard top preparation fitted to your car be very careful of the extra wire and the fitting on the hinge top, best to unclip them and remove them from the hinges first (follow the wires down to their connections and release them).
Removing the hinges without removing the top.
