1963 convertible top not retracting

[caddykenny]

Have a problem with convertible top not retracting, deck opens tray extends it sounds like solenoid clicking but no top motor I believe motor ok or deck would not go up, checked to make sure pump reservoir is full any help would be appreciated thanks

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[biddle]

Use the search page and read previous threads like

Thread '1962 Convertible Top down - Trunk Lid clicks but, Won't Raise.'

Mar 5, 2023

Convertible top is down and trunk lid lockdowns keep clicking but, trunk lid won't raise. Assume loss of fluid. How can I get trunk lid raised up far enough to add fluid so I can find the leak?

• Dustysdad
• Replies: 14
• Forum: 1955 - 1966 Classic Ford Thunderbird

Thread '1962 Convertible top doesn't lower'

Dec 8, 2024

Please just confirm for me that the top
Switch is pressed Down to lower the top into the trunk. When I press down on the switch the lock motor runs but seems to maybe be just spinning the nuts or ?. Top is Up so pressing Up on the switch doesn’t do a thing in this position. Car has been in long term storage so thinking maybe needs lube once I get it opened up.

• reevesbird
• Replies: 8
• Forum: 1955 - 1966 Classic Ford Thunderbird

While repairing, consider modernizing your relays-

Thread 'Ford Thunderbird convertible top electronic relays 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966'

Nov 15, 2021

1958-1959-1960 Convertible Relay Click here to purchase


1961-1962-1963 Convertible Relay Click here to purchase


1964-1965-1966 Convertible Relay Click here to purchase


This flip panel motor is also much more powerful than the factory and is a must have upgrade!

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• biddle
• Replies: 4
• Forum: 1955 - 2005 Ford Thunderbirds For Sale/Wanted

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[Ronl2025]

Have a problem with convertible top not retracting, deck opens tray extends it sounds like solenoid clicking but no top motor I believe motor ok or deck would not go up, checked to make sure pump reservoir is full any help would be appreciated thanks

I had a similar problem with my 61. Mine was the relay. And I believe the relay location and configuration is the same on both the '61 and '63. The relay contacts were very worn and not making a good connection. I'd suggest swapping the wires from either the top erect or the or deck close relay to the top erect relay then activate the top control switch. If/when the top starts to retract...bingo problem solved. Ya don't have to actually swap the wires, just take the wires from one of the relays suggested and plug it onto the top retract relay. Don't use the deck lock relay...it's not the same configuration. Hope this helps. Good luck.

 

[lcboyer]

Have a problem with convertible top not retracting, deck opens tray extends it sounds like solenoid clicking but no top motor I believe motor ok or deck would not go up, checked to make sure pump reservoir is full any help would be appreciated thanks

I replaced all the relays and half the limit switches. I found the bolts in deck lid hinges were stripped allowing it to move around. After I replaced all the bolts my top works s it should