2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD Owners Manual

3. Press the button on the
convertible top handle and pull the
handle down and forward to release
the clamps from the windshield
header.
4. Push the convertible top
switch on the instrument panel and
hold until the top is completely
stored in the stowage compartment.
5. Push the handle back into the lock position.
Installation of the tonneau cover
Be sure the cover is tucked into the deck lid and all snaps are fastened
before driving.
1. Push boot rearward and engage
boot under the body molding at the
rear and sides.
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2. Fasten the snaps on boot to the
quarter trim panel on both sides of
the vehicle and at the center.
3. To remove unfasten the snaps.
4. Pull forward and lift off.
Raising the convertible top
The convertible top will not operate unless the vehicle is in P (Park).
To raise the convertible top:
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. Put the vehicle in the P (Park)
position. Key must be in the RUN position. You can also raise the top
while the vehicle is in accessory delay mode.
The convertible top will operate with the key in the RUN/ACC position or
in the accessory delay mode. It is recommended that the vehicle's engine
is running when raising the top to prevent draining the battery.
2. Remove the tonneau cover and store it in the luggage compartment.
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3. Push the convertible top
switch, holding it until the top
unfolds and moves forward toward
the windshield header.
4. Pull the handle down to open
both top clamps before the top
meets the windshield header
5. Resume pushing the convertible top switch until it has reached the
fully closed position flush to the header.
6. The two pins under the forward edge of the top should seat
themselves in the matching holes in the header.
7. To fasten both clamps securely,
push the clamp handles into the
header on the top until they are
flush with the header. Pulling down
on the header at the center grip
while closing the latches may assist
in fastening the clamps. Use the pull
cups located on either side of the
convertible top handle.
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8. Push the convertible top handle
back up so that it locks into
position.
Prolonged storage
It may be difficult to pull down and latch the convertible top after
prolonged storage with the top in the down position over the winter or in
colder temperatures. This difficulty will decline over time with warmer
temperatures and the convertible top in the full up or latched position.
Convertible top and padded molding care
To avoid damage to the cloth top and moldings, use only an approved
Ford cleaner, or equivalent. Do not use abrasive material or cleaners.
Hot waxes applied by automatic car washes can affect the cleanability of
cloth material.
Using high water pressure or wand type car washes against the
convertible top and windows may cause water leaks and possible seal
damage.
REMOVABLE TOP (IF EQUIPPED)
For more information see the CD Rom included with this guide.
Installing the removable top
The front screw fittings must be checked to see that they are
firmly seated after driving a distance of approximately 50 to
60 km (30 to 40 miles).
The removable top does not have the same crush resistance as
an integrated steel roof in case of collision or rollover.
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The removable top is not, under any circumstances, to be used
to carry or support external loads.
Movement of the removable top requires at least two people.
The removable top weighs approximately 38 kg (84 lb). Also,
due to its shape, the weight is biased to the rear of the removable top.
Your vehicle must be turned OFF and placed in PARK on a level
surface prior to installing or uninstalling the removable top.
Before installing the removable top, unsnap and properly store the
convertible top tonneau cover. Refer toInstallation of the tonneau
coverin theConvertiblesection. Also, thoroughly dry the convertible
top and then lower. Open the doors, lower the windows, and clean the
area where the removable top mounts on the body.
1. Remove the protective cover from the top. Using a mild detergent,
clean the weatherstrips on the top before installing it on the vehicle.
2. Ensure that the top's levers are rotated rearward to the fully open
position. Lock the wheels on the storage cart, loosen the restraining
straps on the cart, and with the help of at least another person remove
the top from the cart.
Once per year, apply a small amount
of silicone lubricant,
F5AZ-19553±AA, to the receivers as
shown. The lubricant should be
sprayed directly into the hole to
avoid contaminating the trim parts.
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3. Lower the rear of the top into
position so that the pins are placed
into the bracket receivers.
4. Position the front of the top so that the locating tabs on each side are
placed in the mounting castings. Ensure that the weatherstrip on the top
is placed on the body mounted seal without any wrinkles or gaps. The
joint should have a smooth and continuous transition to prevent water
leaks.
5. Take the mounting key from the bag located in the trunk.
6. Partially turn, 1/2 turn forward,
the levers of the top (located in the
rear on the left and right-hand side
of the vehicle).
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7. Using the mounting key, loosely
screw in the two screws at the front
of the top by two or three turns.
The two screws are already located
in the windscreen panel of your
vehicle.
8. Turn and lock the levers fully
forward. The levers are locked when
you feel the spring engage and the
levers are pointing toward the front
of the vehicle.
9. Using the mounting key, finish tightening the screws at the front of
the removable top all the way so that they are secure.
The front screw fittings must be checked to see that they are
firmly seated after a distance of approximately 50 to 60 km
(30 to 40 miles).
Removing the top
It is recommended that you prepare the storage rack before removing
the top. SeeRemovable top storage rackin this section.
1. Take the mounting key from the bag located in the trunk.
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2. Using the mounting key, loosen
the two screws at the front of the
top. The two screws remain
undetachable in the windscreen
panel of your vehicle.
3. Undo the locking levers at the
rear right and left sides of the
vehicle. Rotate the levers rearward
while applying a slight upward force
to the top.
4. With the aid of a second person, lift the top off the vehicle and store it
as described inRemovable top storagein the chapter.
Removable top storage rack
It is recommended that you prepare the storage rack prior to removing
the top from the vehicle.
1. Remove the storage rack from the package and place the bumper end
of the uprights on the floor with the wheels facing you.
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