top cover gas strut BMW 328I CONVERTIBLE 1998 E36 Convertible Tops Manual

Convertible Tops - 23
E36 CONVERTIBLE TOP ADJUSTMENTS
NOTE: All mechanical adjustments are critical for synchronous top operation.
The following adjustments are possible on E36 convertibles. The Repair Manual section of
TIS provides system component R&R and adjustment procedures.
The following Repair Manual
screens are from Groups 51 & 54.
The individual listings provide all of
the pertinent procedures for effec-
tively repairing a defect and adjust-
ing the components to effectively
maintain the precision operation of
the top mechanisms.
Example:Adjusting left or right
soft top compartment cover lock.
Group 5125.. additionally includes
the following E36 convertible top
specific procedures:
•Configuration of convertible top
cover
•Replace actuating lever
•R&R Bowden Cables
•R&R Top Cover Lock
•R&R Gas Struts for Top Cover

Convertible Tops - 30
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.

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.