I really don't want to rub my cold weather Porsche friends the wrong way, but here in Florida we're still putting the top down. The only problem is that my clamshell doesn't want to close smoothly. It stutters, backs up, tries again, jiggles back and forth a bit, retightens the cab top back down, tries to close the clamshell back down, and eventually does. But it's quite an effort. Anybody know where to start with this problem? One point of interest is that it seems like the passenger side hook latch is shiny as if it's experiencing some rubbing, but that can't be the entire problem as that's the last step in the process and it takes a long time and many tries to get there. Thanks for any pointers!

 

There are so many micro-switches in our cabs. I would look at the main center latch. There is a plastic cover that goes over the hook. If any of it has broken off,it won't press that micro-swtich down all the way causing the top not to close right.

 

ALSO....move the top into 'service mode' which is a stop as the hood is at it's half way point of it's travel. Then you will see both parts of the latching system of the clam shell. Put a smear of 'O' ring grease on both parts (top and bottom) of the 'Clam shell' latching at the back of the car. http:www.ex-lancs.com/web/clamshell.jpg

 

Check your hydraulic fluid level. That can cause jumpiness. Also make sure you are on level ground as that can have an effect on operation.

 

Dave did you ever figure out the problem?

 

Is the top coming down almost to the window frame and then backing up? There is a microswitch in the main center latch (in front of the dome light) that senses that the top has reached the window frame so that the tensioning hook can be deployed. There is a small plastic piece in the same area that presses against the window frame and activates the switch. If this plastic piece is broken, the micro switch will not activate and the top will get confused and keep trying to close over and over again.

Ask me how I know. unfortunately if this is your problem the fixes are quite limited.
Put the top in inspection mode (lower it a bit) and look just above the hook. You may see some broken plastic in there. hopefully you dont.
Sorry for the weak explanation. hard to put into words.

latch assemblies are very expensive ($1000+).

 

Hello everyone.
I know this is a very old post but I seem to be having the exact same issue now. How was this resolved please? Thank you so much