millhouse961

Looks like my driver's side ram is leaking and will need to be replaced. I haven't taken the panel apart yet to see exactly whats going on, but considering those rams are 16 years old, it seems likely that it is what is leaking. My question is, If i replace 1 side, should I just replace them both? Or will it function fine with 1 brand new ram and 1 16 year old one?

Z28KLR

I would at a minimum undo the convertible top well so you can look and see for sure what is actually leaking - start at the pump motor, follow the lines and look at the fittings between there and the lift cylinders on each side. It would be a shame to buy new lift cylinders only to start taking stuff apart and find the problem somewhere else.

As a band-aid for a very minor leak/seepage somewhere you could just refill the pump motor and call it good. I have to do that with mine every couple years. It just uses Mercon ATF.

millhouse961

Already did the band aid and it only lasted about a month or so. I do intend to inspect everything before ordering parts, if it is the ram, do I need to replace both or just the leaking one?

Camster

I would do just the leaker.
The system works ok,right? until the fluid level drops?

millhouse961

Yeah works like a champ when its full of fluid. Good advice, thanks

Sandmanbjj

Once you find what's leaking just fix that part. It will work fine until you end up with another leak.
But if you are willing to spend a few extra bucks and only do the job once, change both.

millhouse961

pulled it apart yesterday, sure enough its the ram. Took a peak at the other side and turns out that one is leaking too just not nearly as bad. Oh well, replacement parts on the way!

Sandmanbjj

Did you buy new ones or used? My 2 cents. Get new ones. I have installed " leak free" used sets. Trying to save a few bucks. I have a set of new ones going on as soon as I get my engine back in. I bought 2 sets of rams used... guaranteed to be fully functional and leak free. Hahahaha. I now have 2 electric motors I ended up with. So it's not a bad thing all together I guess

millhouse961

Oh yeah, I bought 2 brand new ones from american muscle. I dont ever bother with used parts

millhouse961

Little update, did this repair a week ago and man what a difference. When I took the panels off I found the previous owners temporary "fix" to the problem:



Glad to say all is working great now!