1940 Convertible top cylinders

I have a service instruction for vacuum operated tops and it says to use a mixture of neatsfoot oil and kerosene 50/50. Remove a hose at the top of the cyl. and suck in 1 oz by operating the piston downward which will draw lubricant into the cyl. Work piston up and down several times. Did this to mine they are still working after several years. One problem is that top comes back down so fast have to oper it very slow and catch it with my hand so i don't break the hold down latches. This may save you some needless expense and it won't hurt to try. If I can figure out how to do it I will send you the complete instruction.
Peteva.
 
Gentlemen; Thanks for the help. I pulled the cylinders apart and they have some very light surface corrosion, the leather seals are still intact, I may try to clean up the cylinder and soak the seals, then reassemble and try to run them up and down several times to see what happens. Maybe try the neatsfoot oil and kerosene mixture also. Car was sitting for many years prior to restoration. If this doesn't work, I guess a vacuum cylinder isn't much different than an air cylinder except for the leather seals.
Thanks GARY
 
Also look at replacing the seals in the very top of the cans,they could be loosing vacuum around them. They can be matched up at your local parts house, at least thats where I got mine.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top