Convertible Top Assembly: Installation

2009 Ford Fusion SEL, 3.0 1, FWDSECTION Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
    NOTE: Use care when cutting the tie straps or damage to the convertible top material may occur.
  1. Cut and remove the No. 5 bow and side rail tie straps.
  2. NOTE: Do not compress the convertible top frame No. 5 bow more than necessary to install it to the vehicle. Excessive compression can damage the convertible top frame No. 5 bow.
  3. With an assistant, position the convertible top assembly into the vehicle.
    • If necessary, compress the convertible top frame No. 5 bow approximately 80 cm (3.14 in).
  4. Slowly release the convertible top frame No. 5 bow, while aligning the guide pins on the convertible top frame with the holes in the rear quarter panels.
  5. Install the LH and RH convertible top frame No. 5 bow pivot bolts.
    • Tighten to 9 Nm (80 lb-in).
  6. Position the water diverter as shown, making sure the edges overlap completely, and the diverter are not caught between the brackets and the body.
  7. Fig 1: Positioning Water Diverter To Convertible Top
    GF0014895Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  8. Install the LH and RH pivot bracket bolts.
    • Tighten to 48 Nm (35 lb-ft).
  9. Operate the convertible top by hand, to make sure the top operates freely, without binding.
  10. Position the LH and RH hydraulic lift cylinders.
  11. Install the LH and RH clevis-to-hydraulic lift cylinder rod bolts.
    • Tighten to 20 Nm (177 lb-in).
  12. Install the LH and RH hydraulic lift cylinder brackets and bolts.
    • Tighten to 20 Nm (177 lb-in).
  13. Connect the convertible top ajar switch electrical connector.
  14. NOTE: RH pivot bracket bolts and pivot bracket-to-quarter panel bracket bolts are shown, LH pivot bracket bolts and pivot bracket-to-quarter panel bracket bolts are similar.
  15. Using the convertible top switch, raise and latch the convertible top to check for correct alignment and latching.

    If the convertible top is not aligned or does not latch correctly, carry out the steps in the following sequence:

    1. Fully lower the convertible top.
    2. Loosen the 6 LH and RH pivot bracket bolts.
    3. Loosen the 4 LH and RH pivot bracket-to-quarter panel bracket bolts.
    4. Fully raise and latch the convertible top.
    5. Tighten the 4 LH and RH pivot bracket-to-quarter panel bracket bolts.
      • Tighten to 11 Nm (97 lb-in).
    6. Tighten the 6 LH and RH pivot bracket bolts.
      • Tighten to 48 Nm (35 lb-ft).
    7. Fully lower the convertible top.
  16. Fig 2: Locating Pivot Bracket Bolts
    GF0046268Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  17. Install the LH and RH bolts attaching the L-brackets to the quarter panel.
    • Tighten to 27 Nm (20 lb-ft).
  18. Install the LH and RH inner quarter window belt line seals.
  19. Install the LH and RH rear quarter trim panels. For additional information, refer to INTERIOR TRIM AND ORNAMENTATION .
  20. NOTE: Use care when cutting the tie straps or damage to the convertible top material may occur.
  21. Cut and remove the well sling tie strap.
  22. Fully raise the convertible top.
  23. Recheck the position of the water diverter, and adjust as necessary for correct placement.
  24. Connect the rear window defrost electrical connector.
  25. Install the rear seat backrest. For additional information, refer to SEATING .
  26. Position the well sling channel and install the 4 pin-type retainers to the rear seat backrest.
  27. Make sure the door glass and quarter glass correctly seal against the convertible top side rail. If adjustment is necessary, refer to GLASS, FRAMES AND MECHANISMS .
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.