P15 convertible top

[John Reddie]

Can a P15 convertible top be raised and lowered with the engine off or does it require vacuum from the engine to operate? Thanks for any info.

John R

[BobT-47P15]

Well, John, since it's a vacuum operated top system......you need the

engine running to produce vacuum.

A vacuum line comes off the manifold to the dash switch, which is a

push/pull item. I can't recall for sure, but may be pull to lower, push

to raise. From the switch, run two vacuum lines to the rear seat area

where there is a vacuum cylinder on each side. One line attaches to

top end of the cylinder, another line to the bottom of the cylinder.

Pulls the plunger up or down. That's pretty much it.

Here's a top cylinder, plus the top and plunger from another one.

[greg g]

Can't the top be raised an d lowered manually if the links to the vacuum canisters are disconected.

[BobT-47P15]

Yes, you can lower and raise it by hand. Even if the cannisters are still

connected. I've done it both ways on mine. Right now, the cannisters

are both out of the car. But, the pistons will move if the cannisters are

in place. Plymouth was the first car to offer a power top.

[Robin (UK)]

Plymouth was the first car to offer a power top.

...and I believe the last of 'the big three' to offer a vacuum-powered top.

It was certainly the last with a 'victoria top' (no rear side windows).

[claybill]

yes...but the top linkage is stiff and you are working against the ccannister

friction. disconnect the arm to cannister. easier to just fix the damn thing!!! you will be more satisfied..ain't hard either

bill