Broken sunroof query

[the edmundator]

I made the mistake of trying to open the sunroof and, of course, it has now broken (standard VW tilt/slide mk2).

It won't tilt, it will slide back (haven't tried all the way as it's stiff) but when closing the handle slips on the ratchet and turns without closing the 'roof. The panel is now slightly dropped at the rear edge, especially on the driver's side.

Does anyone know which part is broken?

Any hints on removing a roof that doesn't tilt?

[GTXTRA]

Hi Ed, tbh I've always found the Haynes manual is clear enough - certainly I've in the past removed the main metal panel when swapping it on the BRM years ago and the reupholstered inner panel that includes the 'lift' tilt panel.

If you can fiddle with the felt type panel and loosen the spring that clips it to the roof panel you should be able to 'bang' the felt type inner panel directly above you backwards of it's clip and slide it - this should enable you to be able to view the tilt mechanism as you turn the handle or at least the bit that is not working.

Hope that helps?

[the edmundator]

Yes, the Haynes was fine last time I removed one... but that was a working sunroof that you could tilt (which is needed for the first bit of the procedure). I'll have a look at it when I've got a chance and see if I can get at the spring without needing to tilt it.

[The Autoad]

Hiya Ed,
With some force it is possible to slide the trim panel rearward and ping the spring.

From your description it sound like a few of these things could be going on:
1) The crank is loose and slipping on the cables.
2) One of the 'guide plates' has snapped. Likely cause of the drop at the rear and snag of the cable.
3) Part of the cable runner has broken free of its rivet and no longer guiding the cable.

Keep us posted.

[the edmundator]

Thanks, Ant. I have most (if not all) of the parts... In Birmingham. Probably have to leave it until I can get the spares so I don't end up with a worse problem I can't fix!

I will have a small amount of welding for you at some point...!

[the edmundator]

A couple of pictures, this is the rear driver's side corner of the sunroof:

[The Autoad]

I will have a small amount of welding for you at some point...!

Excellent!

Looking at the drop, my money is on something amiss with the guideplate. Snapped or popped out.