Convertible Top Fluid Type

[57dv]

Hello,

The top on my 69 Camaro is hesitating when going down.

I have read prior postings about how to add fluid to the motor since I suspect this to be the problem. Most of what I have read discusses using ATF A for the system fluid.

I removed the rubber grommet, could not feel any fluid near the bottom of the hole. I used a paper towel end rolled up to place in the hole. The fluid on paper is not red and smells and looks like hydraulic fluid.

So, do I add hydraulic fluid to top off the level?

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Dennis

[sd1968z28]

i have been using atf in my tops.  weather right or wrong i do not know.

[1968RSZ28]

The 1969 Fisher Body Service Manual says to use ATF.

Paul

[Jrschev]

Any hydraulic fluid will work fine. Power steering fluid is probably the best bet. You could also go to NAPA and get hydraulic fluid used in snow plow pumps. It's all good. ATF is very high detergent and that is not needed in a power top hydraulic system.

[BILL69]

I did a complete rebuild  on my power top system a few years ago.   I replaced the cylinders,  and cleaned the pump and lines.   I replaced the fluid with hydraulic fluid,  as I had extra from my garage rack system.   The refilling procedure is easy,  just remember do not overfill.   When the cylinders are retracted the fluid is in the pump,  when they are extended almost all of the fluid is in the cylinders

[philip]

i add some ATF in my 67 convertible system but the red ATF fluid doesn't mix with the original clear fluid (they have different density).
but the top function perfectly