993 Convertible Top Problem - Solved

FROM: RennList.com

​I recently experienced a problem with my power top. I would press the switch to open the top and nothing would happen. I couldn't find much on this type of problem on the archives so I thought I would right up what I found and post some pictures.

I started by checking the fuse and some of the micro switches, all of which turned up fine. Having the repair manual on CD, I noticed a part called the convertible top control unit. I suspected the problem might have something to do with the unit but I had difficulty locating it. I finally located the control unit under the drivers side footwell, sort of under the dash vent. 

The part was a real pain to get out since it located on top of another electronic box with a VDO label on it. Once I finally got it free, I tried opening the top while pressing on the 4 connectors going to the part. To my surprise the top started moving. I thought great, it was just a loose connector. I reseated the connectors and tried again. Nothing moved. I tried again pressing on one of the connectors and the top moved again. I then knew it was probably a cold solder joint on one of the pins on the pc board or a bad connector. The control unit is housed in a plastic case which comes apart easily. Looking closely at the one of the connector pin solder joints, it was easy to see where the problem was. There was a crack in the solder joint around one of the pins. I heated up the soldering iron and reflowed all the solder joints on the pins adding a little extra solder. I put things back together and gave it a try. Now the top works great. The best part is that the total cost was $0.00.

I'll try to attach a couple of photos. They are the control unit with and without the cover on plus a shot of the area where the cold solder joint was.

Hope this helps.

Shawn
96 C4 Cab

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