Body - Convertible Top Latch Replacement

No.: TSB-05-42A-004

DATE: February, 2005

MODEL: 2001-04 Eclipse Spyder

SUBJECT:CONVERTIBLE TOP LATCH REPLACEMENT

PURPOSE

If a convertible top latch is damaged, new, redesigned latches are available tor replacement. Affected vehicles produced after January 2004 have the new-style convertible top latches that require less effort to operate. Only the new-style latches will be available as replacement parts tor earlier production vehicles that require latch repair.

This bulletin contains procedures for installing the new-style topstack latch on earlier production vehicles. Some earlier vehicles may require headliner modification during installation of the new-style latch, in order for the new latch to operate smoothly. Headliner modification procedures are included in this bulletin.

AFFECTED VEHICLES2001-04 Eclipse Spyder

PROCEDURE

1. Latch Removal:

a. With the convertible top closed, remove two screws to remove the number one bow garnish pull cup.

b. Open the convertible top to its fully open position.C. Remove the following parts:

^ Remove 11 number one bow garnish attaching screws (Torx 15)

^ Remove headliner corner screws (Torx 15)

^ Carefully pry off the front rail weatherstrip push pins (2 per side).NOTE: If the push pin is damaged, replace ii during reassembly with a new pushpin listed in the PARTS INFORMATION section of this bulletin.d. Open the convertible top to the half-open (vertical) position. Lock the latches. Then

remove the number one bow garnish.

e. Remove the two top cover corner mounting screws (Torx 15).

Then peel back a few inches of the top cover from the number one bow.f. Close the convertible top assembly.

g. To access the latch, remove the headliner attaching screws (Torx 15) that are near the latch.

h. Remove the two screws securing the latch (Torx 20). Then remove the latch from the vehicle. keep the latch screws for re-use.

i. Inspect the headliner area where the latch was removed:^ If the headliner already has a notch in the latch area as shown, skip Step 2. Replace

the latch with the appropriate part listed in the PARTS INFORMATION section of this bulletin. Then continue with Step 3.

IMPORTANT If the original latch is the same style as the replacement latch, replace only the damaged latch.^ If the headliner does NOT have a notch as shown, continue with Step 2 to make a notch

in the headliner before installing new latches on both sides.2. Headliner Modification (if needed):

a. Use tin snips or a knife to cut a notch in the headliner of approximately 2-1/2" (65 mm) length as shown. Cut through two layers (the headliner material layer and a plastic layer).

CAUTION: Do not cut the headliner stitching.b. Snip off any loose threads.3. Install the new latch using the appropriate pant listed in the PARTS INFORMATION

section of this bulletin.a. Use the original latch screws to secure the new latch. Tighten to 3.6 - 5.2 ft/lb (5 -

7 Nm)b. Open and close the new latch to confirm thai it operates without interference.c. If headliner modification is needed, perform Step 2 for the other latch.d. Reassemble the conventible top, installing components in reverse order of removal.

To ensure smooth cover installation, align the screw holes in the edge of the lop cover to the screw holes in the number one bow. If additional adhesive is required, use a small amount of weatherstrip adhesive p/n A990ZC1X03.

4. Confirm proper latch operation.

PARTS INFORMATION

Use the Genuine Mitsubishi Parts shown.

WARRANTY INFORMATION