Convertible top control 101

Posted by Tobs On 2021/1/25 11:01:18

The top stopped working on my uncle's 53 Caribbean. He said the pump "doesn't make a peep" when using the knob to try and raise or lower. I looked at the electric diagram, and read the shop manual, but still don't have a clear understanding of how this whole thing works, or what my uncle should check first.
I know the electric motor pumps hydraulic fluid to the rams to raise and lower the top, but does the switch on the dash control an electric circuit, or hydraulic circuit or both?
Is there a circuit breaker for the pump motor?
Any pointers on what to check first when looking into this. I appreciate any info on the basic operating procedure of the top, or first things to check.
-Looking forward to warmer weather for packard driving.