E36 Vert Issues

[XGiWiTHA323i]

I picked up a '98 323i Convertible....needless to say, the motor for the top is either bad or just neeed synced. Thats all well and good except for 1 small problem.... I can't get the top to go down manually. I have the front disengaged from the windscreen but it will not collapse back... any suggestions?

[MaClaud10]

Originally Posted by XGiWiTHA323i

I picked up a '98 323i Convertible....needless to say, the motor for the top is either bad or just neeed synced. Thats all well and good except for 1 small problem.... I can't get the top to go down manually. I have the front disengaged from the windscreen but it will not collapse back... any suggestions?

i would watch out if i was you ive wotked on a convertible top and theyare verry tricky dont put to much force or youl breake the stick the connects the motor to the top when you have the top losse from the windshield pull the pice the opens to store the top you will be able to see the stick im talking about you can also look at the piece on realoem.com sorry for the spelling and sentence fragment im using my phone

[XGiWiTHA323i]

Thanks for the heads up. I agree it is tricky!

[olds72]

did you pull the release under the rear seat?

[XGiWiTHA323i]

The handle ws "pre pulled" for my prior to puchase. Unfortunately I cannot get the top to drop manually and dont wish to place too much force on it (fear of bending).

[540er]

you have to keep turning it alot......i mean alot then it will catch and retract enough for you to pull the storage cover up. I'm having a similiar issue with mine and i think it's the tension strap that need to be adjusted or replaced.

[XGiWiTHA323i]

It worked! Thaks for the tip. You werent kidding about turning alot! You are also correct about the tension straps.......the prior owner was kind enough to actually replace one of the with a melted bungie cord...NICE!

Got the new straps so....wish me luck!

[540er]

np, gl. while your at it check the headliner and crossbars too.