Replace rear window on 323i convertible

[getsummmmmm]

Does anybody know of a better way to replace the rear window on a 323i convertible than to pay the dealer $575 ? Is there a do it yourself kit or something out there? I know you'll need a special tool to handle the zipper, but how hard could that be? My window ripped when taking the top down, it hung up on something in the retraction shaft (which it shouldn't have done) and one of my intelligent friends decided to "help' it down. Warranty is out...

Thanks for any help.

[TECH]

Those things are a royal pain the the a$$. Getting that damned zipper started is the biggest joke. If the ends were metal, it'd be ok, but that fabric will hang on the zipper and it'll give you hell...most of the time anyway. I've done plenty of them, and it ain't fun. I think the parts alone is about 200 bucks, and 2.0 labor.

If you do it yourself, or have someone else do it, be mindful of the stitching that holds the zipper in. If any of the stitches are broken, I'd take some super glue and glue the loose ends to the top, so that when you zip it up, the zipper won't pull itself apart.

Where are you located?

[EXtech]

Agreed, major pain in the butt. You'll also need what is commonly referred to as the bone tool. Don't try to use a screwdriver or anything brutal, you'll rip the top and the window.

[TECH]

Originally posted by EXtech@Jan 14 2004, 12:03 PM
Agreed, major pain in the butt. You'll also need what is commonly referred to as the bone tool. Don't try to use a screwdriver or anything brutal, you'll rip the top and the window.

If you get an original window, it comes with the bone tool.

[EXtech]

If someone hasn't robbed it from the box

[TECH]

I usually just rob the zippers........... :P I put a window in today actually. Didn't go too bad.

[chgrec]

I am going to attempt this on my wife's 323i conv soon. I just ordered the window from BAV....Any instructions on the process or steps needed? Perhaps possible pitfalls?

Thanks.....

[TECH]

Originally posted by chgrec@Jan 21 2004, 10:46 AM
I am going to attempt this on my wife's 323i conv soon. I just ordered the window from BAV....Any instructions on the process or steps needed? Perhaps possible pitfalls?

Thanks.....

Good luck.

Don't plan on needing the car for a while once you start. Getting the zipper started on the car is the biggest problem, and it doesn't help that to start the zipper, the tab is made of cloth. I usually get it so mangled that it won't go on without tweeking things.......
The first tooth on the window and the first tooth on the glass should be next to each other, no more than one off, or the window will be wavy and not fit right.
I could give some tips if you have problems, but I'd rather not go into it if I don't have to....if you get stuck, I will.