1972 convertible has trouble going up/down

[torqueaddict]

Hi. I recently purchased a 72 convertible. It was warm today so I put the top down. It will go for a few seconds then stop. If I wait eventually it will kick in again. It took about 15 mins to get it down since it kept stopping.

I tried to read up on the 71 shop manual online but it looks like that chaper isn't there (I'll have to get a 72 book)

Any ideas? I'm not familiar with these.

[Edward]

Overload? (Because it is stiff.) Therefore 'cutout'?
If cutout 'cuts in' again after it cools, then the electrical circuit breaker is physically overloaded.
Try cleaning and greasing all pivot points.
Then ensure electrical contacts are secure.
If it operates better when you physically assist it, then the mechanism may be binding somewhere. Bent rod(s)? Misalignment? Worn brackets causing twisting instead of pushing/pulling?
Even aging stiff hood material reducing flexibility may be sufficient to retard easy movement.
Notice if there is any 'jarring'/hesitancy, and detect its origin.
Good luck,
Edward. (Aust.)

[Grandga]

Hi. I recently purchased a 72 convertible. It was warm today so I put the top down. It will go for a few seconds then stop. If I wait eventually it will kick in again. It took about 15 mins to get it down since it kept stopping.

I tried to read up on the 71 shop manual online but it looks like that chaper isn't there (I'll have to get a 72 book)

Any ideas? I'm not familiar with these.

Hi
check the oil level of the hydraulic pump and cylinders (behind the rear seat)
Old cylinder use to leak and once air enters the pump the whole mechanism blocks and you can hear a kind of snoring.