How to bleed convertible top hydraulics 66 Special?

[MrBuik]

I've been messing with my top frame the last four hours and was just wondering if there is a better way to bleed the system than just put some in the reservoir, run it, put more in run it some more. I finally filled the reservoir and then lifted the top and have been adding fluid to it and running it thinking the air bubbles in the line will eventually be purged. I also cannot find a plug for the fill hole on the pump assembly. What do you suggest or where to get a plug?
The pump was rebuilt at some point prior to me getting the car and it was put in the boot along with the cylinders and no mounts. Unfortunately, either it sat so long or it was rebuilt wrong so I had to disassemble it and get it reassembled to working order. I fabbed up some "mounts" for the cylinders and they seem to fit real nice and allow smooth operation as far as pivoting goes, now to get the hydraulics to open and close the top. Then I'll feel comfortable installing the new top.
Thanks,
Chip.

[Buicktwiggyspecial]

You are bleeding the system right. The fill plug should be on the side of the pump side of the motor and pump assembly. You should be using dot 3 brake fluid or hydraulic oil. It may take a while but you will eventually bleed the system.

[telriv]

It's been suggested for years now to use ATF 111. It's a hydraulic fluid & won't ruin the paint.

[Dr. Frankenbuick]

Yes, ATF will be messy if you spring a leak, but won't ruin the paint where it spurts out or leaks out.

[guyopel]

The 66 was the last year to use brake fluid for the pump motor and cyls. The fill plug is on the motor and after it is full it does not take long to bleed the cyls . but you have to keep refilling .You can get more info. from YearOne for parts and repair info.
The later model Buicks ( GM ) use ATF fluid in the pumps and cyls. YearOne sells a diffrent Pump and Cyls. for the car that use brake fluid .
HTH
John

[crawdadman]

Have a rebuilt top motor from my 64 skylark. It works good now, but replacing hoses and wonder about dirt in the system from the when the motor was rebuilt. Should I run some fluid through first. If so, how to without making a mess. thanks