Convertible Top

xzozo · #1 03-25-2005, 11:07 AM

Can anyone tell me how to lower my top on a 1990 325i? Does anyone know of a website where I can get the diagram?Thanks!

010175 · #2 04-01-2005, 09:21 AM

Is it electric or manual? There seem to be a manual release handle some ware. Check the post just above your. You both seem to have the same problem. Dave

buymeabmwm3 · #3 04-01-2005, 05:18 PM

I have the same convertible. You need to lower the windows, twist open the handle near the center rear-view mirror, and press the button to the left of the radio that has a little convertible top icon on it. If its a manual then instead of pushing the little butoon you have to pull the extra door handle latch in the left rear seat. That unlocks the tonnau so you can fold in the top. Lift tonnau backwards, and fold the top by grabbing the windshield end and pulling it to the rear of the car. Make sure the window folds with the crease towards the front of the car. Put a towl or something in between the folded rear window to keep it from being damaged. close the tonnau, and make sure it latches.

xzozo · #4 04-03-2005, 11:11 AM

I have the manual top. I ve done everything you sid up until the Toneau cover. When i pull the handle in the rear left to release the toneau, only the passenger side is released. It feels like the Toneau is still latched on the drivers side. Is there a latch between the toneau and the car body that I would have to release with a tool or my fingers??

buymeabmwm3 · #5 04-04-2005, 07:13 PM

Thats odd. Not too sure about the manual top, since I dont have one. But my guess is that its stuck or not operating properly, cause you should just have to pull that lever for it to unlock. Dont know what else to tell you.

findbgs · #6 03-14-2006, 12:17 PM

after hours of fiddling with a 1988 325i manual top convertible that i just bought, here are complete instructions:

1. roll down windows and lower sun screens
2. pull handle down 15 degrees and rotate to center of vehicle to release top from windshield
3. lift top slightly
4. pull handle in rear driver side seat
5. lift rear of convertible top to 90 degrees
6. lift tonneau cover slightly and release latch be sliding finger toward rear of car (there is a red button - release latch by sliding finger from 1/2 inch forward of red button toward rear of vehicle.
7. lift tonneau cover and fold top into compartment.
8. the cover won't fit perfectly unless you rotate the roof support (second from the front toward the rear).
9. Close and latch cover.

I hope that helps anyone else trying to figure this thing out. Definately difficult to figure out if you dont have the manual.

Drive fast, and take chances!

BAVARIANM · #7 03-14-2006, 03:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by xzozo

I have the manual top. I ve done everything you sid up until the Toneau cover. When i pull the handle in the rear left to release the toneau, only the passenger side is released. It feels like the Toneau is still latched on the drivers side. Is there a latch between the toneau and the car body that I would have to release with a tool or my fingers??

There is a very small release bar under the left side of toneau. Right where it feels like it's latched. Move that release, and the cover will lift up

280zxguy · #8 03-19-2006, 09:54 AM

Where do you get replacement top supports for the convertible?

I bought an 87 E30 and a tree had damaged 2 of the supports.

BAVARIANM · #9 03-24-2006, 03:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 280zxguy

Where do you get replacement top supports for the convertible?

I bought an 87 E30 and a tree had damaged 2 of the supports.

Supports? If you mean that the frame is damaged, you're hurtin. Those parts only come as a complete frame. You might find a junkyard that might let you seperate though

Bear · #10 04-03-2006, 02:48 PM

OK, let's start.

1. Unlock the front top retainers at widnshield.
2. Start pulling top back 9about half way) and in back seat next to elbow rest there is a ever, pull it out (this releases back of top, the part with the window) you should hear a click.
3. Reach under the forward edge of the back seat top cover (tonneau) it should be a litlle bit loose and find a small metal clip, pull it and the well cover for the top is released.
4. Pull well cover up and fold top in (you will need to push top material well back and the two side straps as well and in addition,the metal bar that goes from side to side will need to be rotated aft.

Hope I have not confused you.

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