[Zach.Millwood]

2008 Passion Cabrio.

My convertible top is slightly misaligned, refusing to close completely on one side (very tiny gap, but much wind noise >45mph). The hooks that clasp to the A pillar don't match; one is fully latched, the other only partially. After removing the rear brake light and spoiler assembly, I am able to access the soft top motor. I have repeatedly realigned the spring cables against the gears inside, but each time I run the top back forward, the teeth skip back to the previous position. I have adjusted both sides both ways, in every permutation I can think of.

1. Is it possible to source these gears and/or other myriad little plastic pieces elderberry in the top assemblies, as it's possible they are a little worn?

2. Has anyone found success in realigning the two sides of the top by means other than opening the soft top motor transmission?

3. I really need advice from someone who has successfully worked on one of these... I'm persistent and resourceful but this is trying me.

 

[dhlairbusb4]

I have only adjusted the tension on the top by tightening the fabric straps that run on each side. Maybe one side of yours is too tight, if so its an easy fix.

 

[Zach.Millwood]

I did loosen the strap on the "

 

[dhlairbusb4]

Zach, I hope you loosened the side that was appropriate... I think they are designed to be equally tensionned.
Sorry if this does not help.

 

[crazysmart]

2008 Passion Cabrio.

My convertible top is slightly misaligned, refusing to close completely on one side (very tiny gap, but much wind noise >45mph). The hooks that clasp to the A pillar don't match; one is fully latched, the other only partially. After removing the rear brake light and spoiler assembly, I am able to access the soft top motor. I have repeatedly realigned the spring cables against the gears inside, but each time I run the top back forward, the teeth skip back to the previous position. I have adjusted both sides both ways, in every permutation I can think of.

1. Is it possible to source these gears and/or other myriad little plastic pieces elderberry in the top assemblies, as it's possible they are a little worn?

2. Has anyone found success in realigning the two sides of the top by means other than opening the soft top motor transmission?

3. I really need advice from someone who has successfully worked on one of these... I'm persistent and resourceful but this is trying me.

I have both side motors and gears if you need some

 

[Zach.Millwood]

It's actually both these cassettes from the convertible top.. The ones at the front. Maybe we can make a deal on the entire cloth top, too.

 

[Zach.Millwood]

Oops, maybe wrong thread. I just need the cassettes for the little plastic guide in the front. It's not available separately.

 

[marky mark]

It's actually both these cassettes from the convertible top.. The ones at the front. Maybe we can make a deal on the entire cloth top, too.
View attachment 63112

i have the passenger side guide near the hook that has broken. i havent been able to find info yet on how to repair/replace. does anyone have parts diagrams and repair steps?

 

[Podracer22]

You’re on the right track adjusting the roof from the gear box. Open the roof maybe 5 inches then open up your gear box and slip a screw driver or Allen wrench under the metal tubes to get the gear cables off the motor cogs. Then evenly slam the roof close to the max. Put the back all together and now when you open it, you have to assist the side that gets left behind with a guiding push all the way to the B pillar. When closing it, assistant the side the that gets left behind. The reason why your roof always becomes uneven is not the gears but rather the sliders are getting caught and delayed. A little guiding push/pull is the answer. Observe the rails as they move and you can see which point in the rails the sliders get caught.

 

[Podracer22]

Join the “Smart 451 Convertible Group” on Facebook for more tips.