new to list: Cabriolet question

[Kent McLean]

Alex Cagann wrote:
 > Greetings.
 > I just bought a 98 Audi Cabriolet and the top does not function.
 > The dash light blinks when you hit the button. I hear the slightest
 > click noise from the trunk when I hit the button, but no movement.

Welcome.  Yes, there are many knowledgeable people on this list,
and no (well, not many) "which 20-inch wheels are best" questions.

I think this is the first question I've seen on an Audi Cabriolet
top.  So, the group may not have a lot of experience.  But, we know
our Audis, so here is my 2 cents.

I'd find a helper and track down that "click" in the trunk. It
is probably a relay used to power the top's motor.

Use a voltmeter (VOM or DMM; they're about $20 at Radio Shack),
check for 12V out at the relay when you push the top's switch.
If it isn't putting out 12V to the motor, then the relay is bad
and should be replaced.

If the relay is good, then I'd check for 12V at the top's motor.
If the motor is getting 12V, but isn't moving the top, then the
motor is bad or something is binding. If the motor isn't getting
12V, look for bad wiring between the relay and motor.

Just my 2 cents, and shooting in the dark.

P.S. Is the Cabriolet your car, or Symbolics? Just curious.

-- 
Kent McLean
'94 100 S Avant, "Moody"
'89 200 TQ, "Bad Puppy" up in smoke