I have a hydraulic leak in the trunk. Not sure where yet... need someone to operate switch while I look for the leak if its a line , can a piece be spliced in or do you have to replace the entire line? How do you add more fluid? What type of fluid do you use? thanks
Just replaced the lines and top pistons in my 70. The lines get very brittle with age! I was able to patch one for a bit using fuel line and hose clamps. When I did replace the lines and pistons I used a convertible top bleeding kit that slipped right into the pump motor and made bleeding the system a snap, even by yourself. It can be a messy job and you need to pull out the rear panels to get access to the pistons to change the lines. There is a great thread with pictures that details how to get it done. For fluid, I used ATF, some use light hydraulic fluid and old school folks put in brake fluid(not recommended). Brass fittings all around so be careful not to cross thread or over tighten the fittings. This is very doable. Find out where the leak is and replace the hoses would be the way to go. Good luck!
Thanks. I couldn't find the thread... you wouldn't happen to know where is is? Do you know if the lines the same as you use for refrigerator for hooking up the ice machine? thanks again.
I posted a bunch of pics of my pump & hose replacement about a year ago. Yes I would think that the refrigerator water line compression fittings would allow you to cut and splice the damaged line. Use transmission fluid to top off the system. Here's my post; http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?265562-hydraulic-rams-and-lines-replacement
That was the post I was referring to, really helped me get a handle on it. Make sure to keep the 4 factory clips to help keep the hoses routed correctly. Straight forward job. Here is a link to what I used to bleed the system. Made it so much easier! Good luck!
awesome, thanks guys.. the other post is extremely helpful. Just bought new lines through Convertible Service along with their bleeding tool... I appreciate the help.. this forum rocks!
lines and bleeder tool came in today from Convertible Service.... all the way from CA t NY in 2 days and only $9 shipping...the other post helped and the recommendation for the bleeder tool was a good one. she operates flawlessly and better than it ever did! thanks for your help..
Congratulations and well done. The warm weather is here so I am sure that you will get many chances to enjoy your success!
