tow BMW 318I CONVERTIBLE 1999 E36 Convertible Tops Manual

Convertible Tops - 2
E36 CONVERTIBLE TOP
OVERVIEW
E36 - 318i, 323i, 325i and 328i:
The top design consists of two pivoting sections;
the tension bow at the rear and the foldable top section with multiple bows.
When lowered, the top is stowed in a storage well behind the rear seat. The well is cov-
ered by a hinged convertible top cover.

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The E36 base convertible top is manually operated. The higher line top is an Electro
Mechanical variant that has evolved through two versions:
•Semi Automatic
•Fully Automatic
The mechanical movement and sequenced steps of operation are the same for all three
variations.
•After the windows have been lowered
slightly, the top is released from wind-
shield frame.•The tension bow is then raised to a ver-
tical position.
•The top cover body panel is then raised
which opens the storage well for top
stowage.•The top is folded back into the storage
well.
•The storage cover is then lowered and
latched closed.

COMPONENTS
CONTROL MODULE:
•Located behind the left side rear seat interior
quarter trim panel (1).
•All relays and operating electronics are installed
in the module. The control module is fully diag-
nosible with the DIS or MoDiC.
TOP SWITCH:
•The top switch is positioned in
the center console.
•The switch of the fully auto-
matic system contains an LED
that flashes when the top is
not fully closed and locked to
the windshield frame.
However, the LED will not
flash when the top is fully
stowed in the top compart-
ment with the lid closed.
Control module memory of lid
position via Hall sensor.
Convertible Tops - 6
LED-Fully Automatic T LED-Fully Automatic T
op Only op Only

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Z3 CONVERTIBLE TOP
OVERVIEW
This Convertible top design is a single retractable mechanism that folds into a storage well
behind the seats. When stowed the top is covered by a clip on vinyl top cover. The top is
rigidly connected at the rear which eliminates the need for a tension bow as used on the
E36 top design. The top is latched to the windshield frame with catches on the left and
right sides.
The Z3 was introduced in the 1996 model year with a manual variant of the convertible top.
Starting with 4/97 production, the manual top was fitted with an additional gas spring strut
to assist the driver while raising or lowering the top. For the 1998 model year an optional
Electro Hydraulic variant also became available.
Regardless of the mode of automation, the mechanical pivot points and movement while
raising or lowering are the same for both variations.

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Z3 CONVERTIBLE SPECIFIC SI BULLETINS
Refer to the following list of Service Information bulletins when servicing a Z3 convertible.
Always check the most up-to-date SI’s and recent DCS messages for current service
information.
•Z3 STOWAGE BOOT REPAIR KIT. P/N 54 31 8 401 804. SIB 54 05 96.
•Z3 TOP WATER LEAKS. SIB 54 02 96.
•CONVERTIBLE TOP CLEANING KIT. P/N 83 12 9 407 806. SIB 54 07 95.