Repairing a convertible top that does not fold properly

Jan. 1, 2020
Owners of Sebring convertibles built before March 1997 may have difficulties folding down the convertible top. When lowered, the corners may protrude.

Owners of Sebring convertibles built before March 1997 may have difficulties folding down the convertible top. When lowered, the corners may protrude. Chrysler offers the following information in the event of this problem, and recommends part 05003813AA, elastic strap kit, convertible tops.

While in the raised position or lowered position, if the corners are sticking up or around the window, then follow these repair procedures:

  • Raise the convertible top half way up, with the top rail vertical.
  • Locate the main control link.
  • Measure and mark, toward the rear of the vehicle, 2 3¼4 in. from the center of the link rivet across the main control link.
  • At the mark, measure down 3¼8 in. from the top of the control link
  • Drill a hole where the two lines cross, through the control link. Saturn recommends using a No. 28 (9¼64) drill bit.
  • From the forward edge of the cable pocket toward the rear of the vehicle, measure 18 11¼16 in. for vinyl and 19 1/2 in. for cloth and draw a line across the cable pocket.
  • From this mark, measure and mark 1/2 in. toward the rear of the vehicle.
  • From that mark, measure down 1¼4 in. from the cable pocket stitch line and mark.
  • Carefully cut the top cover across the mark made in the last step to allow access for the strap.
  • Feed the elastic strap through this hole.
  • Bring the two ends of the elastic strap down to the drilled hole in the outer edge of the control link.
  • Insert the shoulder screw to the strap and then to the link, torque to 30 in.lbs. Ensure that the strap can freely move between the screw shoulder and the control link.
  • Repeat this for the opposite side.

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