Can anyone tell me the correct way to raise and lower the top on a 1940 Mercury? There is a push pull switch to the left of the steering column with rubber/plastic hoses running into canister in the back. I do not want to break anything by guessing. Thank you in advance.
That is a hydraulically operated mechanism. The top goes up or down depending on which way you move the switch. If the pump makes a noise when you activate it but the top does nothing it's probably out of oil. Be aware that if parts are needed, even if you can find them, you'd better be financially well off. I believe I have seen a web site that has new or rebuilt pumps. I don't recall which, though.
It sounds like it would be a good idea to thoroughly research this mechanism and its operation (Owner's Manuals, parts diagrams, etc) before you pull any switches. Damage usually happens before you can say "Oh ****!".
Just unhook the system and do it manually with the help of another person. Unless you have the funds to do it right.
The convertable top is vacuum operated . they do make conversion kits to make it hydraulic . don’t force a single thing on that top as most of the hard parts are unobtaneium and if you can even find them your giving up your right nut and left big toe !! I’ve never worked in one , but being vacuum I ***ume the car needs to be running ? Did you undo the latches on the windshield header ?
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