Has anyone attempted to rebuild their hydraulic cylinders? I am currently going through my whole power top system and am contemplating what I can rebuild. Any input would be appreciated! Thanks.

I have recently attempted to rebuild the cylinders. They are pressed together when factory assembled. You could probably get them apart but you would have to find a way to press them together so they would hold oil. I rebuild a lot of cylinders but these are beyond me. I checked the repair manuals and they say "replace". I found the best deal around on a new pair($209) and I'm waiting for them now.
Jim

Thanks for the input. I thought about cutting them open with a pipe cutter near the crimped end, rebuilding the piston and welding them back together. I do not see a good spot to cut it, where it won't interfere with the stroke of the piston. I am going to replace my lines, clean up and reseal my motor/pump assy and bench test it........ Wish me luck!?

Good Luck! I thought my cylinders were in good shape. When I was rebuilding my top frame I ran the top up and down about fifty times to get the frame just right. Both cylinders were working good with just a little bypass when one cylinder locked up. I thought for sure that I could rebuild the cylinders. I got out my trusty repair manual and they said replace not rebuild. Now when I think about how many times that the top will go up and down I'm glad the cylinder locked up and forced me to buy new ones.
Jim

Birdsprinter,

I called these guys and they said that they can refurbish the cylinders. I don't remember if it they will save you very much $$$. Here's the site:

http://www.convertibleparts.com/hydrauli.htm

Vince

I replaced my cylinders not too long ago and bought my parts from these guys... http://www.hydroe.com/Parts_Hydraulic.html#TOP
They had better prices than most,had the parts in stock, and shipped quick with no hassles.

Good luck,
Dave

Thanks for all of the replies! I am going to purchase some new lines and bench test my set-up. If I have any problems, I will investigate your leads.

Thanks again,

Rob