You are here:

Classic/Antique Car Repair/1964 lincoln continental convertible

Advertisement

Expert: - 5/28/2010


Question
there is one for sale right outside of Chicago for a good price, but they said the top is broken in the down position, how much will it cost to either get a new top or fix all of the internal mechanics and keep the old top,  thanks

Answer
Hi Jeremy:
If the top won't come up, your hydraulic system needs replacing.
It could be both hydraulic cylinders, the pump and the solenoid and hoses. If its the original,
I'm guessing it needs a complete replacement, which runs about $2000. A new top will run about the same.

However, it could just be low in fluid. There is a hydraulic fluid tank that holds about two quarts of fluid. If its low, then just add fluid. If the top switch is working (e.g. you hear a humming sound) but it won't come up, check the fluid first.

If the fluid tank is full and you don't get any sound, then check the top switch fuse and then the solenoid. If the hydraulic cylinders are leaking fluid, they are bad and must be replaced.

Classic/Antique Car Repair

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Vern Bullock

Expertise

Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

Experience

I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

Organizations
Classy Transportation, LLC Limousine Service.

Publications
All around the Internet

Education/Credentials
I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

Awards and Honors
I regularly compete at car shows and average around a dozen awards annually.

Past/Present Clients
See Web site at: http://www.classytransportation.com/

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.