Soft Top Frame is Broken!

C

Cool Z4

Active member
 So. Cal, USA
Ok, so here is a new problem.. One day, my top wouldn't go up, kept getting stuck 1/2 way up. Upon further examination, I found out where the metal frame was broke. Took it to my mechanic and he verified that it was indeed broken. He finally got the top to close, so I have been without the top down for a couple of weeks now. :thumbsdown: :x
So, here is the fix. Gotta buy another one, the expert said that worked with my mechanic. The new ones cost around $5K. My car almost has 200K miles now, :) so it isn't worth it, :( but I want it fixed for obvious reasons. :driving: I also need to replace the canvas top, it has seen better days. :P The cost new is around $1.5K, which doesn't include the removal and installation cost of the frame and top. The expert said about 10-12 hours. :x So, my mechanic is looking around for a used one. Well, I found one complete with the Tan canvas top such as mine for TADA....$1165 :D Of course, I have to still pay for the installation :cry: , but going from $7.5K down to $2.2K :D :D makes me a happier camper.
I don't know if I can tell whee I got the deal or not on thsi forum, so if you want to know, pm or e-mail me and I will tell you. I think everybody should check out these guys :thumbsup: Here's a hint, they are from other cars.. :poke:
 
If the frame broke why couldn't it be repaired?

Weld it, braze it, sleeve or insert into a broken component, machine a new bit, whatever??? Surely ingenuity could have it done for next to nothing, however if you planned to change the canvas anyway that's a different matter.
 
You should be able to find one at the wrecking yard for even less than that. Most times you can bye the whole car for under $2K
 
Paddy Wright,
The web site is Bavarian Auto recycling.

cj10jeeper,
The "expert" said it is pot metal and it was at a joint and you can't fix it at that junction.

2 Zero
With these "high end" cars, its kinda hard to find a local junk yard. Did rather well, I think in finding the frame.
 
Sorry to hear Z4 cool, car has done 200K? :o No doubt that roof had been up and down a few times? How many of those miles did you do?
 
Problems? Well, where do I start..I guess I have had about every problem that everybody else has had.
Luckily, I have had no major Engine or Transmission problems. Still have the original shocks and exhaust system. Well, heck it was 190K before I changed the trans oil for the first time. Not recommended, though. Had the gas tank replaced due to bad fuel level switch. Have a different gage cluster. Replaced both headlights, 3rd nose. 7 or so sets of tires, brakes, windowshield wipers. 3rd windshield. Been in the garage lots of times. Once my trunk wouldn't open up using the remote, Check the wires betweeen the trunk and body, right side of the trunk. Highly recommend doing this periodically. Found 2 broken wires and 4 ready to go. Changed the drivers seatbelt once. Re-upholstered both seats. Had lots of alarms to deal with, etc..etc..
But was all the hassle worth it? You bet it was. Have driven thru 48 states, been to 5 HomeComings, have been on regional drives and have met lots of people thruout the USA with the same enthusiasm over their car as I have with mine.
I wouldn't trade any of it. :D


I have NOT done all those miles. After all, the car had 18 miles on it when I bought it.. :poke:
 
:D Way kewl story Cool Z4! I can't wait to meet you! Are you going to C&C on Sunday? I'm gonna call Leno and see if he's available to make an appearance again 8)
 
Sorry to hear Cool Z4 is under the weather! Good job finding a top in good condition and at a reasonable price.

ROADCAR is in the garage and will stay there until I am feeling better. Sorry I will not get to come out and play with the S CA folks this weekend and meet the legendary Flyboy AJ! Bronchitis had knocked the fun out of me even though my car wants to get out and play! Enjoy the run this weekend. I am there in spirit!
 
Aweeee, JoAnna! We are soo gonna miss you! We'll take lots of pictures and that'll make you feel better and you can beat that infection!Hopefully I'll catch you next time around.
 
Thanks AJ,

I told Bob I was so looking forward to meeting you and enjoying this run. Look forward to pics and the next time to meet, after all LV is not that far from LA. I live in San Diego so I get to drive an hour or so to LA for get togethers!!!!! :driving:
 
Just think of this Joanna, AJ has a fine looking house in Vegas. I think we gotta get a run together in 2009 and go bug him... :driving:
Oh, has this thread been hijacked now? :?
 
Great idea, he has a pool and summer will mean there will be no snow! Hey AJ: Get ready for several cars and folks showing up at your home!!!! :driving:
 
Cool Z4 said:
...
Once my trunk wouldn't open up using the remote, Check the wires betweeen the trunk and body, right side of the trunk. Highly recommend doing this periodically. Found 2 broken wires and 4 ready to go.
...
Click to expand...
My boot stopped opening from the key after I had the car/key memory re-programmed (see here)

It opens from the button in the car and by inserting the key but not from the button on the key. Can you clarify what you did so I can try the same. Ta :thumbsup:
 
Hi there, I will post here and on mine. I don't know how to add a hyperlink.
Ok, try to look at the wires that go from your body to the trunk. On mine, being LH driver..the wires are on the rh side of the trunk when you open it up. Move the rubber boot back and check the wires on one side, then do the same on the other side. If you need pics, let me know and I will take a couple of my car for clarification.
 
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