Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1966 CHEV CONVERTIBLE TOP, down position, hydraulic pump

Question
MY 1966 CHEV CONVERTIBLE TOP GRINDS OR MAKES ALMOST A RATCHETING NOISE WHEN I TRY TO PUT IT DOWN.. I ONLY TRIED ONCE...SOMEONE MENTIONED FLUID? I AM AN ALL THUMBS GUY..THANX!

Answer
The top mechanism uses a hydraulic pump and two rams, located tat the rear and on either side of the rear seat.

There should be a fill plug on the pump motor. Remove it and fill with Type "A" transmission fluid until it's about 1/4" below the fill hole. The top should be in the down position when you do this, as the rams will be fully retracted.

Good Luck!

--Paul