convertible top inoperable, 2003 T-Bird

[Naples]

MY CONVERTIBLE soft top will not go up....motor does spin in the down mode but not up...switch in front
is ok....both computer modules are talking to each other....I do have the service disc and all info from
this site, HOWEVER: I need to get under the soft top to troubleshoot further...I think my problem is
the "up relay". No hydraulic fluid can be smelled. The pistons, left and right are dry without leaks.
So what is the secret on how to raise the top manually, by hand, so I may continue troubleshooting
the problem....the circuit is very simple but not the access below the soft top....

 

[Frankie the Fink]

I would try switching the up and down relays in the auxiliary relay box at the left rear; will the top not raise just by pulling on it ? There are no "locks" so you are pushing against the hydraulics but I would think it would move with some effort..