55 Convertible Top Problem

[blue62vette]

I am currently working on a 55 Convertible. The pump for the top was replace before I purchased it. When operating the top it will go down fine but when I try to put it up it move a little and then stops. I have to have someone pull the top up as I hold the switch. Once it is about 2/3 of the way up it will continue on its own. The pistons for the top are original. I have check the fluid which is a little dirty but the level was fine. Any suggestions would be greatly apreciated.

[Rue]

You may need to bleed the system.

[Original Pete]

I have had a look for my servicing the power equipement and I can not locate it. But from what I had read about the power top you do need to bleed the pump upon its replacement. I will keep looking for it and try to update this post.

[blue62vette]

I tried bleeding the system by putting a fitting in the filler plug opening and running a tube into a container of brake fluid as recommended for bleeding the system. Still only works going down not up. Thank you for your suggestions.

[gasmanscotty]

Not sure but you stated that your cylinders were original.I wonder if you dont have one cylinder that has a bad seal allowing the fluid to bypass.Mine was the same way except it would go up ( after a few secounds) but had a hard time going down.I replaced both cylinders along with the pump and hoses and all is good.I was told if when raising or lowering the top that you should be able to let off the switch and the top should stop and stay.If it doesnt you have a cylinder leaking past.When I bled mine with everything new was told to cycle the top up and down about 3 times and ck fluid level and that should do it.After I did that everything works great.Was also advised to replace the fluid with Dextron 2 trans fluid which I did,we all know what brake fluid can do to paint if a hose blows.Hope this helps.:anim_25:

[angs1957]

I did post links to a 55 convert section

heres the link, check out the 55 w`shop manual

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/

[blue62vette]

gasmanscotty thank you for the help. I will check it out this weekend. Where did you get your new cylinders?

[gasmanscotty]

got my cylinders off ebay but they came from Convertible Top Specialists located in Inverness Florida ph.352-637-5505.they are new and exact replacements.as i remember I paid $139.00 EA.they were very helpful.hope this helps,scott.