Roof Rattle - do they all do that sir?

[andy jb]

When driving the Chim with the rear (targa) section raised but mid roof section stored, there is an annoying rattle as if its teh whole rear roof section vibrating. This doesn't happen when teh roof is folded right back.

The question is this typical? ie normal flex & nothing i can do or is there something i should be checking to minimise. The boot panel has been removed & all wires secured against fuel tank plus all allen key bolts tightened through roof base. I cannot trace source either which is why i think it may be teh whole roof. I have lubricated teh supports all to no avail.

Any suggestions?

[bobs4c]

The only time I've had this was when the roof stay retaining nuts had worked loose. But I reckon you've already been there!

[petea]

mine sometimes does this, it is annoying but it seems to be intermittant on mine?

Sounds like it is coming from the alloy support on the drivers side...i thought it might be one of the joints or maybe the hinge in the middle?

Not much use to you i know but at least you know you are alone!

[richb]

Could be that the over-centre struts need to be tighter. They are adjustable if you slacken the bolt holding them to the bulkhead you can move them up and down slightly, doing so increases or decreases the amount of pressure required to get them to snap into position. Without the roof panel out there should still be a certain amount of tension in the struts when popped into place. If these are loose then they will rattle and more worryingly the roof will not be as secure. Rich...

Edited by richb on Tuesday 5th September 17:25

[V8 Kieran]

Sounds like mine (going over bumps/rough roads), only I thought it was actually the rear shocks being a bit worn and rattling in guides - another job for when my bank balance is getting too high!

[andy jb]

richb said:

Could be that the over-centre struts need to be tighter. They are adjustable if you slacken the bolt holding them to the bulkhead you can move them up and down slightly, doing so increases or decreases the amount of pressure required to get them to snap into position. Without the roof panel out there should still be a certain amount of tension in the struts when popped into place. If these are loose then they will rattle and more worryingly the roof will not be as secure. Rich...

Edited by richb on Tuesday 5th September 17:25

Great - this sounds quite feasible - i will pursue this option - thanks for advice