I am wondering if there is a way to open the convertible top clam shell manually. It is currently stuck in the closed position.
As background, I have a 1997 Boxster that had its plastic window slashed in a parking lot. My car insurance company paid for a new top with glass and defroster. I was referred to a local upholstery shop to have the top replaced. During the replacement of the top, they somehow broke the arms that connect the top to the right and left transmissions. They then forced the clam shell closed somehow and latched the top.
Now when I try to unlatch the top the hook will not pop out from the area near the microswitch and I don't want to pry it out and cause further damage. If I am able to get the hook out, in theory the clam shell should still slide despite the arms to the top being broken, is this correct?
Absent getting the hook unlatched, is there a way to slide the clam shell back so that we can figure out what we need to replace. This is a huge mess which involves myself, the upholstery shop and the insurance company, who wants the adjuster to be able to assess the damage.
Any advice as to either issue:
1) Unable to unlatch, is the to too tight?
2) A way to manually slide the clam shell back?
Thanks,
Scott