Top won't close - electrical

My top wont close (2002 boxster base tip). I was able to open by bypassing microswitches at top control module plug in. I tested the top latching microswitch (as well as disassembled latching microswitch and continuity test on two metal bars) and brake microswitch and both tested ok. I watched the Help Me DIY Aaron put together on the topic . He includes a pdf file with a list of 13 electrical tests, and one of the tests with the convertible top locked referring to cowl panel frame microswitch failed. I couldn't find reference to a cow' panel frame microswitch in my 2002 boxster, so Im not sure that test is applicalble to my year.

1.Any thoughts on what might be wrong and where I can locate part? Top mechanism works as top went down fine when I overrode the control top relay.

2. Also, is there a way to test the control top relay?

Thanks,
Barry

2002 Boxster base tip (215K miles)

I would start by checking the convertible top fuses.
Then I would check to see if the relay is switching.
If not, I would check to make sure the relay has power coming in.
If so then I would test each of the inputs to the relay to see which signal it's not getting.

If all the inputs to the relay are correct and it's not switching then the problem is the relay. This is not the usual cause but it's not unheard of.



That said, you said you bypassed microswitches at top control module. Which switches? That could be useful information.

Thanks so much! I thought I had it isolated to the test steps referencing the cowl frame microswitch, which I interpreted as the locking latch switch of the top. I purchased that microswitch, but unfortunately that didn't fix the problem.

I'll go back to your diagram and suggestion.

When I said that I bypassed the microswitches at the top control module, what I meant to say was I used jumper cables to open the top by plugging into the corresponding top open to pos, and top close to neg slots, after taking the control relay off.

Right now, the top is down and I get a constant top open light signal on the dash, and of course the top does not move when the button open is engaged. I had tested the button open top by replacing it with a different button without success. I replaced the unlock convertible top lock switch. So it seems like the problem is in the top transmission or motor (also, the brake microsensor tested and was not the problem). I appreciate your help!

BarryL
2002 Boxster base tip Seal Grey 215K miles.
(Original owner, ordered from the dealer for buildout).

Given everything you have said I'm guessing that the convertible top transmission has a cracked or broken gear and that is causing the open/close microswitches to not function correctly. You can test this theory by checking the open/close signals on the relay (pins A3/B9). I would venture a guess that the "closed" microswitch is activated even when the top is open.

There is a very good video that shows the process of replacing the gear here: [www.youtube.com]

It's a long video but he first opens up the left side (the one with the microswitches) at 21:08.

I'll give that a try. Thank you so much!