SC430 Top Maintenance?

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Feb 22, 2018 | 07:46 AM
  #1  
After reading some of the horror stories about problems with SC430 top I got to wondering if there is anything that should be done to maintain a healthy top! My 2003 SC430 has about 183,000 miles on it! I have only owned the car for less than 2 years and have no idea of how many times the top has been raised and lowered! I have the top down every time I get the chance! There are no issues with the top but I wonder if there is anything that I should do to keep my top healthy!

SC430 Top Maintenance?-lexus02.jpg   SC430 Top Maintenance?-lexus01.jpg  

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Feb 22, 2018 | 08:24 AM
  #2  
I would
Hi,

I would start by keeping your Rubber Seals! There is many on the SC, from under the Hood, under the Trunk, Side Doors and the top Seals.... Also lubing locations where there is metal to metal contact, i.e Hinge Points when the Top opens and Closes.

This is what I use:

Gummi Pflege Stift
303 Aerospace protectant
Dupont Krytox, comes in oil and or Grease formulations. This is especially good for hinge locations, and metal to metal contact!

Hope this helps!

Bob
Reply 2
Feb 22, 2018 | 09:06 AM
  #3  
I took a look through the overhaul instructions for sliding retractable roof...making sure bolts and nuts are properly torqued, and friction points are lubricated. The FSM has precise measurements and torque amounts. The process is to stop the roof half way through it open/close cycle, with the package tray shelf is in its up position, where you can gain easy access to all components for inspection. Our sliding roof is driven electrically as opposed to hydraulically. While we have many motors, switches, sensors, gears, hinges and electronics they are reliable. But, considering vibrations alone, failures from time to time is not unreasonable. Best maintenance is to keep it clean, free from dirt, debris (leaves, pine needles etc) and moisture. Especially moisture which can affect motors and switches. So, as previously mentioned, keeping the section seals in good condition. In addition don’t forget to keep the trunk drains and water channels clear.
Reply 4
Feb 22, 2018 | 09:21 PM
  #4  
Here is the link of the top maintenance. Lubrication points by Coleroad starting post #5.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc4...ing-in-sc.html
There is also the link within the post to the PDF file showing the components and assemblies (post #13)
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Feb 23, 2018 | 05:14 AM
  #5  
I don't think a lil maintence/lubrication would hurt...but most of the problems are electrical...and I am speaking form experience after having had two issues. I think I have read all the top issue threads.

For the seals I use Honda Shin Etsu silicon grease....
Amazon Amazon

For all other lube points use a good quality Silicon spray.
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Feb 23, 2018 | 09:13 AM
  #6  
I would start by taking the side carpets out of your car. That gives you a very clear look into the hinges and all the parts that need to be lubed.

Taking out the carpet isn't hard, just cumbersome because the carpet pieces are so big.
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