Understanding the Problem:
Before attempting any repair, you need to diagnose the exact problem. Common issues with the hydraulic cylinder include:
* Leaks: This is the most frequent problem. Leaks can occur at the seals (piston seals, rod seals), the cylinder body itself (due to corrosion or damage), or at the fitting connections.
* Seized Piston: The piston might be seized due to corrosion, lack of lubrication, or damage.
* Bent or Damaged Rod: The hydraulic ram's rod can be bent or damaged from misuse or impact.
* Failed Hydraulic Pump: The problem might not be the cylinder at all, but the pump supplying the hydraulic fluid.
Potential Repair Steps (Generally require specialized tools and knowledge):
1. Diagnosis: Thoroughly inspect the cylinder for leaks. Check the fluid level in the hydraulic reservoir. Operate the top manually (if possible) to assess the cylinder's movement and identify binding or resistance.
2. Removal: The cylinder needs to be carefully removed from the car. This often involves disconnecting hydraulic lines, potentially removing other components for access, and possibly supporting the top mechanism to prevent damage.
3. Disassembly: The cylinder will need to be disassembled to access the seals and piston. This requires specialized tools and knowledge of hydraulic cylinder construction. Improper disassembly can easily damage the cylinder beyond repair.
4. Seal Replacement: Replace worn or damaged seals with OEM or high-quality replacement seals. Using the wrong seals will lead to leaks and further damage.
5. Piston Inspection and Repair/Replacement: Inspect the piston for damage or scoring. If damaged, it may need replacement.
6. Cylinder Body Inspection: Check the cylinder body for any damage, corrosion, or pitting. Significant damage often requires cylinder replacement.
7. Reassembly: Reassemble the cylinder carefully, ensuring proper seal installation and lubrication.
8. Reinstallation: Reinstall the cylinder into the car, reconnect hydraulic lines, and bleed the system to remove any air bubbles.
9. Testing: Test the operation of the convertible top to ensure the repair was successful.
Why Professional Help is Recommended:
* Specialized Tools: Disassembling and reassembling hydraulic cylinders requires specialized tools, including cylinder presses, seal installers, and possibly a lathe for machining damaged parts.
* Technical Expertise: Understanding hydraulic systems and cylinder operation is crucial for proper diagnosis, repair, and reassembly. Mistakes can lead to further damage or injury.
* Source of Parts: Finding correct replacement seals and other parts for a classic car can be challenging. Reputable shops have access to these parts.
* Cost-Effectiveness: While DIY might seem cheaper initially, mistakes can easily lead to much higher repair costs or the need for a complete cylinder replacement.
Alternatives to Repair:
* Rebuilt Cylinder: Consider purchasing a rebuilt cylinder from a classic Mustang specialist. This is often a more cost-effective solution than attempting a complex repair.
* Cylinder Replacement: If the cylinder is severely damaged or beyond repair, replacement is the best option.
In summary, repairing a 1965 Mustang convertible's hydraulic cylinder is a challenging project. Unless you have extensive experience with hydraulic systems and access to specialized tools, it's highly recommended to seek the services of a professional mechanic or classic car restoration shop. The cost of professional repair will likely be less than the potential costs of a failed DIY attempt.
