light BMW 325I CONVERTIBLE 1999 E36 Convertible Tops Manual

Convertible Tops - 3
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.

E36 AUTOMATIC ELECTRO MECHANICAL (EM)
CONVERTIBLE TOPS
The Automatic EM convertible top was introduced as a“Semi”Automatic in the 1994
model year. The top was upgraded to a fully automatic top in 1997. Except for a few addi-
tional components and an additional function on the fully automatic version, both systems
function the same. For this reason the systems are described simultaneously and high-
lighted as required where differences occur.
FEATURES
The top is designed as a self tensioning, electric mechanical power operated folding top.
The main features include:
BOTH VERSIONS:
• Electrical interlock of the trunk lid when the top storage cover is unlocked or open.
 Automatic partial lowering of the four side windows when lowering or raising the top.
 Automatic full raising of all four windows once top is stored in the storage compartment.
 Fully diagnosible EM Top Control Module.
 A textile, crease free interior liner clipped to the top frame.
 Emergency release handle inside the passenger compartment, for manually raising the
top with an electrical failure.
 A removable (zipper) green tinted plastic rear window.
 Soft top material of 3-ply with 40% cotton fabric lining and 100% Arcyl outer skin.
SEMI AUTO ONLY:
 A centrally located turn lock fastener on the for-
ward edge of the top for locking and unlocking
the top to the windshield frame.
Convertible Tops - 4

RE-CONNECTING DRIVE MOTORS
Due to the interlock of the trunk lid an unlocked top storage cover, the following procedure
must be followed to reconnect the top drive motors, to restore electrical operation:
•Lower all the side windows with the central switch
•Unlock the top from the windshield frame, raise it over the tension point and open the
storage cover.
•Lower the top into the storage compartment and close the storage cover.
•Disconnect fuse #7 in the front power distribution box (this will override the forced lock-
ing of the trunk).
•Open the trunk lid and remove the trim cover from the left side of the trunk.
•Reconnect the motors with the gear drives. The actuating rods can be moved slightly
to allow the gear teeth to engage.
•Close trunk lid and reinstall fuse #7.
•The EM top system must now be initialized to restore normal operation.
Convertible Tops - 18

E36 CONVERTIBLE SPECIFIC SI BULLETINS
Refer to the following list of Service Information bulletins when servicing an E36 convertible.
Always check the most up-to-date SI’s and recent DCS messages for current service infor-
mation.
•E-36 CONVERTIBLE TOP HEADLINER SAGS.
Repair kit P/N 54 31 8 227 354. SIB 54 03 96.
•CONVERTIBLE TOP CLEANING KIT. P/N 83 12 9 407 806. SIB 54 07 95.
•CONVERTIBLE STORAGE LID PROTECTIVE CAP INSTALLATION. SIB 54 06 95.
•CONVERTIBLE FOLDING ASSIST ROD. P/N 54 31 8 203 869. SIB 54 05 95.
•CONVERTIBLE HEADLINER PLASTIC PANEL REPLACEMENT. P/N 54 31 8 211 902.
SIB 54 04 95.
•CONVERTIBLE TOP PLASTIC BREAKS AT C PILLAR.
Repair Kit P/N 54 31 8 209 781. SIB 54 02 95.
•CONVERTIBLE HEADLINER SAGS. SIB 54 04 94.
•CONVERTIBLE TOP FAILS WHEN LOWERING.
--Needs new drive levers-- SIB 54 03 94.
•CONVERTIBLE TOP SEAL SQUEAKS.
•CONVERTIBLE TOP ACTUATING ROD REPLACEMENT.
•CONVERTIBLE STORAGE LID LATCHING CABLES. SIB 54 06 93.
•E-36 CONVERTIBLE TOP INITIALIZATION. SIB 54 04 93.
•E-36 CONVERTIBLE GLOVE LIGHT STAYS ON. SIB 63 03 93
Convertible Tops - 29

Convertible Tops - 32
OPERATION
•Top operation is dependent on a stationary vehicle with the brake pedal depressed.
•Unlock the top at the windshield frame and raise past the tension point (microswitch
closes).
•With the windows lowered press the top switch in the console panel.
•The switch provides a ground for the control circuit of either the up or down relay. Power
is provided through the brake light switch circuit when the brake pedal is depressed.
•The activated relay provides operating power to the pump motor which is grounded
through the other relays not active contacts.
•Release switch once top is at end of travel.
•Motor reversal is achieved when the switch is pressed in the opposite direction activat-
ing the other relay.

Convertible Tops - 33
Z3 CONVERTIBLE TOP ADJUSTMENTS
The following adjustments are pos-
sible on Z3 convertible tops. The
Repair Manual section of TIS pro-
vides system component R&R and
adjustment procedures.
 Adjustment Shims for Base
mount to body. Procedures for
R&R top.
Additionally, the Repair Manual has
procedures for:
 Replacing Rear Window
 Replacing Convertible Cover
 Replacing gas spring strut
Not included in the repair manual is the
adjustment procedure for the windshield
latch hooks.
The hook(s) can be adjusted to correct
for inadequate sealing at the windshield
seal or if the hooks are excessively hard
to close.
Loosen the small recessed allen set
screw. Screw the threaded hook in or out
as needed to adjust. Pull the allen screw
completely out and apply a light coating
of loctite on the threads. Tighten set
screw.