1991 new storage top lever malfuntion

[Jim M.]

I have a friend that I helped replace a new storage top lever and found that when you try to pull back on it, it jams up to the point if you pull back all the way you will break it. This is probably why we had to replace it, someone had pulled it completely back . I have reversed the lever, tried extra washers to shim it but to no avail. Only thing I can think of ,perhaps the 91 is different than other C4s? Any ideas?

[Keith B.]

Re: 1991 new storage top lever malfuntion

What storage top lever are you referring too. Are you asking about the one on the coupe that you push to release the removable targa top?

[Jim M.]

Re: 1991 new storage top lever malfuntion

Yes Keith, it is a 1991 "coupe", this black plasitic "storage top lever" is where you store your top in the back while you travel. Push or pull this release lever. If you pull back very far, it will break.

[Keith B.]

Re: 1991 new storage top lever malfuntion

My 94 coupe only has less then a inch of travel to release the top. Mine is also spring loaded. All C4 coupes should be the same

[Jim M.]

Re: 1991 new storage top lever malfuntion

Total spring loaded travel is about five sixteenths of an inch, before it starts to jam and bend.

[Keith B.]

Re: 1991 new storage top lever malfuntion

It only needs to move back enough for the pin to allow the top to become unlatched. It sounds like there is something inside jamming it up

[Rick A.]

Re: 1991 new storage top lever malfuntion

agree with keith

[Jim M.]

Re: 1991 new storage top lever malfuntion

Thanks goes out to Keith and Rick, I have tried the top and your right, I have about a half inch travel on the pin before it starts to bend. Caution, be aware not to pull the lever all the way back (or it will break) as you drop the top into position for the pin. Guess I am more familiar with the older cars made of metal. Never dawned on me that the engineering threshold specs was limited on the travel span. Thanks again, case closed.