My Convert top switch quit working, How do I access the switch to remove it ? From the front of the dash or the rear ? If the front how do I safely remove the dash piece without cracking it?
Thanks,
Jeff

 

Helps to know what year and series car you have... since different years and different carlines mount it differently.

 

Yup. Most Olds convertible top switches are installed with a bezel (trim) on the front, but fastened from the back side.

You're going to have to work from the back of the dash. If this is a 1970-1972 Cutlass, I believe its a 9/32 socket to undo the two screws and speed nuts from the back side of the dash switch.

The switch on the Cutlass models is almost exactly llike the Cruise switch. Here's a picture that shows a cruise unit with the bezel removed, and you can also see how the switch is screwed into position from behind. (ok that just sounds wrong, but just think about the dash switch). Hope these pics are the ones you need to help out.

FYI the convertible switches are available for a reasonable price if yours is no good. Check out this link to convertible top specialists. They might have what you are looking for. Their list is pretty extensive.
http://stores.ebay.ca/convertible-specialists

Don't know if this helps, but what the heck.

 

There are a few places that will refurbish convertible top switches, too.

And of course if they can do it, you can too, if the switches come apart (like the cruise switch). After years of switching high current, the contacts inside get pitted and burned. Careful, steady hands and a dremel can sometimes bring them back to life for free.

 

Thanks for all the info .. It is a 72 Cutlass .. I undid the switch and tried to jumper it .. 1st it ran in the down mode .. but I needed it up so I switched the jumper to the other leg .. now I get nothing in either direction .. think I'll order the switch and wait til spring .. car was stored yesterday .. Thanks 4 the help !!

 

Oh by the way .. I made it sound like I removed the switch .. I have not yet .. I just pulled off the connector and jumpered it there .. maybe the relay went out in my fooling around with the jumper

 

Does the '72 even use a relay for the top?
I searched for a top relay on mine and never found it. The wires going to my switch are very heavy gauge so I was thinking the system is relay-less.
Any confirmations on this?

 

I was told by someone that there should be a relay mounted on the firewall right behind Brake power booster .. I have seen places selling a rubber boot that covers it to keep it dry ... I actually have not confirmed this as I put my convert away for Winter Saturday morning. but was told 70-72 have this relay and not sure about 68-69.

 

I have a relay there, but it is for the A/C blower high speed. I have seen the covers for the "top relay" and that was what prompted me to look for one. No evidence of one can even be found...
Maybe I will have to chase wires if I get the time and ambition. However, I do believe in "If it works, don't mess with it and #@&^ it up!"

 

Hi. The so called relay onthe firewall is a 30 or 40 amp solid fuse runs from the battery to the fuse thento the convert top switch has a little rubber cover over it used on all 68 to 72 models mabey more . If you need to get your top up or down if switch dont work, get in trunk pull the plug from motor and use a spare battery and jump the motor to go up or down.

rocwal
Dan B