Have to replace one hydraulic piston on my 65 Skylark convertible top. What type of fluid should be used and should the system be flushed out.
ATF fluid. won't hurt paint if it leaks and it's less harmful to plastics than brake fluid. and I would flush out the entire system. If you havent ordered the piston yet, hydro-e-lectric sells the pistons and a pump seal kit. I'd recommend getting the seal kit as well. also if your top lines are very brittle may be time for some new ones of those too. -nate
ATF Makes Sense to me, BUT where is the fill??? I understand that adding fluid to the hydraulic unit is kind of like adding gear oil to a rear differential (remove a plug add fluid until it starts to overflow), but I don't want to take things apart that I shouldn't. On the right side of the unit, in the center of the trunk right behind the back seat, I see a three sided bolt/plug in the center and a black rubber plug toward the top. Otherwise all I see are the fluid lines. Specifically, how does one go about adding fluid? I was trying to add a pic but apparently the pic I took is too large a file to upload. Thanks! 67 Skylark Rag
here is a thread explaining how to add fluid to the top pump. http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?t=27135 easy procedure but not as easy as just pouring fluid in. don't be afraid of rebuilding the top pump. there isn't much to it, It's just a smidge harder than changing your oil. Basicly the whole thing comes apart from that one bolt on the end. Then there are a few screws under that top cover. and thats it.
