Convertible Top Motor

JD1964

there is enough sticking out to grab on to
15 Year Member
Jun 28, 2013
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Maryland
93 convertible - The top motor would not run. Relays are clicking and all connections including ground are good. Tap on the motor housing and the the motor starts working. Obviously there is something worn or loose inside of the motor.

Have any of you had this problem? Can I disassemble this thing and have a shot at fixing it of am I looking at buying a whole new motor? Do you have to buy the motor / pump as a unit or can it be bought separately?

Thanks
 
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Just for fyi, just because a relay is clicking does not mean it is functioning properly. You will need to test power lead coming out of relay. Since you are tapping on the motor and it works, I assume that is the problem, but if the relay isn't putting out correct voltage and amperage the motor could have issues operating correctly.
 
Diagram courtesy of Tmoss & Stang&2birds

Convertible top motor wiring
mustang88VertTopMotorCkt.gif


Mustang FAQ - Wiring, Engine, Air Bag, ABS Home Page
See the following website for some help from Tmoss (diagram designer) & Stang&2Birds (website host) for help on 88-95 wiring Mustang FAQ - Wiring & Engine Info Everyone should bookmark this site.

94-95 Mustang wiring diagrams
Mustang FAQ - Wiring & Engine Info

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Visual comparison of the Ford Fuel Injectors, picture by TMoss:
http://www.veryuseful.com/mustang/tech/engine/images/Ford_Injector_Guide.jpg

Convertible top motor wiring http://www.veryuseful.com/mustang/tech/engine/images/mustang88VertTopMotorCkt.gif
 
In my 28 years experience of owning two fox verts, when the motor stops working and the relays are clicking its time to replace the motor.

Been there a few times and its always been the motor. I've never replaced a top relay.
 
I have confirmed the condition again. Top wont close > tap on motor housing with wrench > top closes.

Looks like the top motors are $300. Yikes! I was hoping to be able to fix this one. Has anyone ever pulled that off?
 
At this point you have nothing to lose. Remove the motor and dissemble it. You will probably find a loose wire or broken connection inside the motor. Look closely at the carbon brushes (little blocks of carbon that usually have a wire attached to them) and brush holders. Frequently the brushes will have a small hole in the outside of the motor case. This is to hold the brushes in a retracted position so the you can assemble the motor without damaging the brushes. Once the motor is assembled, you pull out the pin or paper clip and the bushes will pop into position.
Look at the field windings for broken wires or loose connections.



See

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAtPHANEfQo

for more help with DC motors.