Convertible Top: Description and Operation

PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION

The convertible top is opened and closed using four hydraulically controlled pistons. Two main bow pistons in the top frame are fixed to the body and lift the complete top assembly into and out of the stowage area. Two tension bow pistons open and close the tension bow at the rear of the convertible top. This allows clearance for the tonneau cover panel to be opened when the top is being retracted in to the luggage compartment. It also seals the rear of the top with the tonneau cover panel when the top is opened.

The top and rear quarter glasses are operated using a hold-down switch located in the overhead console. The convertible top will only open if:
- The vehicle speed is below 24km/h (15mph)
- The luggage compartment lid is closed
- The luggage separator is in position

The front windows must be programmed for one-touch operation in order for the convertible top to operate correctly. Failure to program the windows results in a ten second opening delay once the top is unlatched. The windows can be manually programmed for one-touch operation using this procedure:
- Ignition ON
- Raise window up to the top seal and release
- Raise again until window stops moving
- Release
- Raise again
- Lower window fully
- Release
- Press lower for a further 0.5 seconds until a relay is heard to CLICK

A luggage compartment separator prevents items from moving into the area in which the convertible top is stowed. The luggage separator incorporates a Hall effect proximity sensor, which prevents the convertible top from operating unless the separator is in the fully deployed position.

The aluminium tonneau cover is secured in the closed position by a mechanically controlled cable operated latching system. The cables are tensioned using a mechanical lever assembly operated by the movement of the covers hydraulic piston. The latches are released by spring tension when the covers hydraulic piston releases the tension in the cables.

The aluminium tonneau cover is raised and lowered hydraulically by a single piston.

The convertible top incorporates a fully automatic latch and unlatch tension rod system, which uses an electric motor with a gearbox and flexible shafts to latch and unlatch the top. Failure of a tension rod, motor gearbox or latch motor will prevent the top from unlatching. In the event of either of these failures it is possible to release each of the top latches manually.