Roof working one way only

[Z485]

Hi guys
I couldn't find any discussions about this issue. I have a E85 2008. The roof works going down with no problem but doesn't go up. I can hear the motor working while pressing the roof up button but nothing moves.

The only way to put the roof up is by manually lifting the roof and then pressing the roof up button which then secures the roof lock.

Has anyone had this problem and can help me with a fix please? I have read various topics about failed roof motor but mine works fine going down and can hear it working when trying to put roof up.

Thanks guys

 

[bowser134]

Sounds like the roof pump that is attached to the motor has failed.

 

[Z485]

So if the roof pump fail will the roof down mechanism still work?

 

[Smartbear]

So if the roof pump fail will the roof down mechanism still work?

One way requires more hydraulic pressure than the other, as the pump becomes worn or weakened due to corrosion it can lead to one way operating I’ve heard
Rob

 

[markplant]

Gravity helps

 

[Davz]

Have you operated the Bowden cable? If so the pressure release valve is stuck in.

 

[Smartbear]

Have you operated the Bowden cable? If so the pressure release valve is stuck in.

The op’s roof operates in one direction but not the other, a stuck release valve would effect both directions equally.
Rob

 

[Davz]

The op’s roof operates in one direction but not the other, a stuck release valve would effect both directions equally.

when I moved mine to the boot the first time it operated it went down but not up. Had to free up the valve as it was corroded and then it worked perfectly. I would remove the cable, check the valve moves freely. Then try operating the roof with the cable not connected so as to eliminate this as a problem. If it works reconnect the cable making sure there is no link or tension on the cable as it will operate the valve.....don't ask how I know this

 

[Number5]

OP doesnt say if the motor is in the original position or in the boot. If not in the boot he'll struggle to carry out the simple tests.
Once in the boot its a 2 minute job to swap the lines and electrical connections over and see if the roof then goes up and not down, thus proving its the pump as Bowser suggests.

Get it relocated to the boot first and then sorted in the process. Either Boweser or myself offer this service depending on whos nearest to you. (Bowser is in Hants, I'm in Bristol)

 

[Z485]

Thanks everyone for your inputs. The motor has not been relocated to the boot. Sounds like I won't be able to test it or fix it. Will take it to a garage once the lockdown is over.

If anyone had this same issue and got their Z4 fixed I would really appreciate it if you could tell us what you did and how much it had cost.

Thanks again everyone for you quick replies and help. Cheers

 

[Davz]

The motor has not been relocated to the boot. Sounds like I won't be able to test it or fix it.

If you are a practical person and don't have a back problem you can tackle this yourself.

Just follow this guide, its pretty straight forward, if you're not a key worker it'll fill a day or two of your time!

https://zroadster.org/threads/z4-roof-motor-relocation-to-boot.19256/

 

[Number5]

If anyone had this same issue and got their Z4 fixed I would really appreciate it if you could tell us what you did and how much it cost ?

I can relocate and fix it (in Bristol) or so can Bowser134 (in Hants) Where are you based ?
Estimate £150-200 depending on issue or if parts needed

 

[Ajdonkin23]

Currently have the exact same predicament!

I’ve ended up removing the roof and going to relocate motor to the boot. Motor runs when connected to a battery. It will open the roof but not close. I’ve topped up the hydraulic fluid.

I’ve exposed the pressure release switch (manual operation) and it seemed seized. Freed this up slightly but hasn’t solved the problem.

Not sure where to go next, few pictures attached. Considering taking motor apart to refurb?

Any advice appreciated
Thanks!

 

[Davz]

found this which might be of use, info and advice from a garage, same issue as yours.........

"After removal of the existing hydroelectric motor unit we probe the terminals to ensure the valve block is fully operational. Port 12/14 on the new design will pressurize and fluid will projectile from the port. Reverse the polarity and port 11/13 will not pressurize until you seal port 12/14 with a suitable screw to test. Our "reconditioned" unit had this issue and when tested, port 11/13 was unable to pressurize when the other port was sealed, creating the roof will open but not close effect vice versa. The problem being these reconditioned hydroelectric motors have the electric part adequately repaired but the valve block is probably not as simple to maintain, yet has encountered the same long term water ingress as the motor.

Check the valve block and replace accordingly, hopefully with your still present old unit. If you swap the lines over to the corresponding port and the problem is reversed then your lines/cylinders are sealed and operational. Don't worry about the electrical side of things, the issue is your hydraulic pressure in the valve block."

 

[Z485]

The motor has not been relocated to the boot. Sounds like I won't be able to test it or fix it.

If you are a practical person and don't have a back problem you can tackle this yourself.

Just follow this guide, its pretty straight forward, if you're not a key worker it'll fill a day or two of your time!

https://zroadster.org/threads/z4-roof-motor-relocation-to-boot.19256/

Thanks Davz. Will try and do this while the weather is good.

 

[Lucidnonsence]

If anyone had this same issue and got their Z4 fixed I would really appreciate it if you could tell us what you did and how much it cost ?

I can relocate and fix it (in Bristol) or so can Bowser134 (in Hants) Where are you based ?
Estimate £150-200 depending on issue or if parts needed

Hi Alan, can you PM me please re roof motor relocation, need to book mine in from Devon

 

[MichaelThomas]

Having the same issue, did you manage to relocate and find the problem? I’ve been advised it’s the hydraulic block on top of the motor, can’t buy this part on its own so reluctant to spend until I’m positive it’s not a cracked line or weak motor..

Cheers

 

[ph001]

Seal has gone inside the hydraulic ram (the black piston looking things) responsible for the roof close operation.

 

[Number5]

Michael Thomas - Where are you based ?
I have spare pump tops and can sort it for you.

 

[Monster666]

Seal has gone inside the hydraulic ram (the black piston looking things) responsible for the roof close operation.

How easy are the seals to replace? I have exactly the same problem. Pump&motor have been relocated to the boot. Got messed around with someone trying to fix it, which worked for a few goes but then reverted to opening but not closing. Bought a new reconditioned motor.....& guess what, absolutely no difference!