98 328i convertible ???

[MONEY_PIT_CIVIC]

Hey sorry to bug you guys, but i noticed that you knew a few things about e36's.

I just bought a 98 328i convertable, and my roof opens about 12 inches and the red light on the switch starts to flash and doesn't continue to open the rest of the way.

Do you know what this means?

Thanks for the help

[jeffreyb4me]

Hi Mike, you may have one of several problems but I need more info !st. You car may have one of two operating mechanisms, Fully automatic [no A-pillar release handle to unlatch OR Semi-auto top with a release handle. I also need to know if pushing uplightly on the front bow allows the top to function the rest of the way........DON"T force it!!! One last thing, do you have the owners manual??? This would make it easier to walk you through the "Emergency" proceedure to open and close the top.

talk with you soon................................jeff b.

[Skycity_BMW]

I don't know if this may help you guys . . .

http://www.worlduph.com/bmwe36hlinstructions.htm

[jeffreyb4me]

Thanks 'Skycity BMW' for the headliner tip, those are great instructions for doing that job which is fairly common on the early E36's until they've been updated. I think 'Money Pits' problem[s]] lay[lies] elsewhere though..............................jeff b.

[Pmack11]

This happens on mine --just recently....after having someone do it while I stood out and watched there was a contact being made between the hard plastic cover and the tops frame.....a slight push alwats does it for me anyway