Convertible Top Problem

[Rui725]

Hello guys,

Its been quite some time since I put down my convertible top, and have decided to give it a go to see if its stilll working. It still works, but i have come to realize a few problems.

1. its awfully squeaky
2. when latching on to the piece behind the roll bars, there's some metal to metal friction sound.
3. The left and ride side after completing opening is not aligned. The passenger side seems to be higher than the left.
4. when closing there is more metal fricition.

Keep in mind, i only take down the top maybe 3-4 times a year. Does anybody else have experience the same problems as I do with the convertible top? I remember having my motor replaced just after 1 month of buying it....horrible experience.

Edit:
To elaborate more, the friction part, where the 2 hooks, one from the convertible top and one from the center console gets stuck is located at the top of Part 14 in the following real OEM schematic:
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=BT33&mospid=47798&btnr=51_4939&hg=51&fg=35
It is actually quite scary listening to the the sounds it makes. Its this horrid crunching sound.

-Rui725

 

[Adam D]

Needs the balance links adjusting (two bolts behind covers on the left and right uprights of the roof, these adjust the roof throw) &/or the catch. A little bit of ptfe spray on the moving parts to make it easier on the motor.

 

[*AL*]

I regulary lubricate all visable roof mechanism pivot joints, i use motorcycle chain lub as it sprays on easily and remains as a liquid grease. Helps ensure the roof works freely, putting less strain on the roof motor.

 

[Adam D]

I'll have to get some of that chain stuff, assume you can buy it in halfords?

 

[Mr Whippy]

Hmmm, my roof, when going up/down is fine, but when it goes down it doesn't clip into that thing at the back centre... I can just push it down gently and it clips in... but then it squeaks anyway.

I generally don't bother clipping it down, is that a bad thing anyway?

Cheers

Dave

 

[*AL*]

I'll have to get some of that chain stuff, assume you can buy it in halfords?

Yes i think you can, if not a motorcycle dealer.

 

[z head]

Hmmm, my roof, when going up/down is fine, but when it goes down it doesn't clip into that thing at the back centre... I can just push it down gently and it clips in... but then it squeaks anyway.

I generally don't bother clipping it down, is that a bad thing anyway?

Cheers

Dave

Very common niggle on pre-facelift, my 54 plate 2.2se suffered the same.... but ..... all you need to do is stand out side the car and watch as the roof retracts, you'll see the sides of the roof folding the wrong way. As the roof comes down, just hook your finger in the fold and pull it out rather than letting it fold in. I'm not explaining this very well am I? If you do this several times you will see that eventually the roof will fold the correct way and the clip will operate fine to lock the top down. The roof will then function perfectly for a few months (depending of course how often you operate the roof) when it starts to misbehave again, and it will for sure, just go through the procedure again of hooking the holds out again.

 

[Adam D]

I'll have to get some of that chain stuff, assume you can buy it in halfords?

Yes i think you can, if not a motorcycle dealer.

Just bought some 'muc off' PTFE chain lube, dries a bit funny but the roof is zooming now and even latching better with the increased momentum

 

[Rui725]

Are you guys referring to this article?

http://www.bmwtis.net/tsb/bulletins/bulletin_graphic_temp/B540302g.htm

 

[*AL*]

I'll have to get some of that chain stuff, assume you can buy it in halfords?

Yes i think you can, if not a motorcycle dealer.

Just bought some 'muc off' PTFE chain lube, dries a bit funny but the roof is zooming now and even latching better with the increased momentum

Spot on! I think it should be done as part of the BMW service interval, maybe it is but i doubt it. There's quite a few pivot joints on the frame, the closer you look the more you find! This will help with motor life, so get lubricating everyone!

 

[RustyZ4]

I regulary lubricate all visable roof mechanism pivot joints, i use motorcycle chain lub as it sprays on easily and remains as a liquid grease. Helps ensure the roof works freely, putting less strain on the roof motor.

Yep thats what I use too