I can't seem to find a top repair shop close to me anywhere. I'm in Virginia, zip code 22842, if anyone knows of a place.

If your not mechanicaly minded why not take it to a top shop first? spend a little money for a diagnosos before you start throwing money at parts it mat not need? also the gears stipped for a reason just replacing the broken parts invites a repeat of the same problem............

It sounds like the top releases and I can hear the motor, but it sounds like a grinding noise from stripped gear. It doesn't pull away from the body at all. Can just hear it release and then re-attatch when I push UP. I'm not a handyman, but I didn't see the stripped tread gear in any of the diagrams. Probably have to buy the whole motor. Which looks like it's probably #7 in the first diagram.

When you press the 'down' button, can you hear the latch release?  Can you hear the motor run?  Does the top move at all?

Here are some diagrams showing the available parts for the 2005 convertible.

Sorry. I have a 2005 Mini Convertible. Not the "S" model.

Yes, year & model of MINI would be helpful - gen1 or gen2 convertible?

Ken

Give us a hint... what car are you talking about?
Make, Model, Year... that sort of thing.

I took off the cover on the top between the front seats and noticed the worm screw was worn out. Probably why my top won't come down. I've yet to find a place online with a diagram showing all the working parts for the top, and the ability to purchase them. Does anyone know who would have these parts ? Or am I stuck, having to take it 1 1/2 hours away to a dealer ? Thanks.