1962 convertible deck issue

[fasteddy]

62 Bird, convertible top. When I hit the switch to close the deck lid with the top enclosed in the trunk, the deck lid continues to close regardless of which position the control switch is in. I have checked all the limit switches and relays. Any ideas??
Also, I ordered a new control switch that mounts on the drivers door. My original switch has 4 wires that plug into a switch with 4 terminals. The new switch only has 3 terminals. The vendor says it is the right switch. Duh???
Thank you.

 

[74 Harley]

Is it possible that you have a sticking relay? Or a dead relay. I had a winch that only went one way because of a stuck relay. Not an expert, I have not rebuilt the system in my '62 yet. But I too am trying to learn more about the top system on these cars.

 

[fasteddy]

Is it possible that you have a sticking relay? Or a dead relay. I had a winch that only went one way because of a stuck relay. Not an expert, I have not rebuilt the system in my '62 yet. But I too am trying to learn more about the top system on these cars.

Thank you. I have checked all the relays, they are new, but some of the terminals were loose. I crimped them down and sprayed tuner lube on them also. The limit switches are all original. I took the cover off and cleaned the contacts. They have a good continuity across the terminals. This top mechanism is a PITA.
New pump, new rams and relays. Must be in one of the limit switches which are single and double throw contacts. Thanks again and hope your project goes well.

 

[Ward 57]

What a gem if you can get it figured out. My '57 is pretty simple in comparison but can still be complicated.

 

[biddle]

Are you familiar with the upgrade? https://forums.fordthunderbirdforum...959-1960-1961-1962-1963-1964-1965-1966.12774/

 

[fasteddy]

The upgrade might be a good idea. Where can I get a wiring diagram just for the top operation. From the switch thru the relays, pump, solenoids, limit switches etc. Thank you.

 

[Critterpainer]

If you bought new relays, that might be at least part of your problem. About 7 years ago I assisted in repairing a 63 Bird top control. 50% of the new replacement relays were returned because they were not reliable. Also the 3 and 4 wire terminals on the original wiring harness were either not making contact to the relay or were corroded to the point they were troublesome.

 

[fasteddy]

If you bought new relays, that might be at least part of your problem. About 7 years ago I assisted in repairing a 63 Bird top control. 50% of the new replacement relays were returned because they were not reliable. Also the 3 and 4 wire terminals on the original wiring harness were either not making contact to the relay or were corroded to the point they were troublesome.

Thank you. I went thru the relays today, I powered the coil and they all snapped. I will check them again tomorrow on the contact side. I did notice the deck lid operating erratic. Several bumps on the switch and it finally opened up full to the top. Not sure if the new relay panel for $450 will take are of the issues. Thanks again, this is a great site.

 

[Jim simone]

I have a 1962 convertible built in 12 / 3 / 62 and was having the same issue . But mine has three wires 1 red 1 black and 1 yellow I put the electronic relays from https://forums.fordthunderbirdforum...959-1960-1961-1962-1963-1964-1965-1966.12774/
and adjusted the limit switch all is good now mine is a driver so don’t need original

 

[TristanL]

Hello all, I’ve been having issues with my convertible top functioning like it used to and was wondering if there was a quality mechanic shop in Louisiana that I could bring my car to?

 

[Jim simone]

I had sim problems with my top also 62 Tbird I got my the electronic relay pack from https://forums.fordthunderbirdforum...959-1960-1961-1962-1963-1964-1965-1966.12774/


John is great he also has the repair manual for top also pat Wilson has the top manual for around 25.00 the electronic relay pack I bought was $ 650.00 works great and each relay has separate button to see what relay is not working took about 1.5 hours to install