Convertible Top - Incorrectly Installed Plastic Wire Tie
Group 54Special Roofs
Bulletin Number
54 06 92 (3627)
Woodcliff Lake, NJ
October 1992
Product Engineering
SUBJECT:
Damage to Soft Top
MODELS:
E30 Convertible
Situation:
It has been observed that during the installation of the lighter springs for the side tensioning cable in the convertible top, and during the replacement of tops, some technicians have incorrectly installed the plastic wire tie that retains the plastic sleeve on the spring. If the wire tie is installed in such a manner that the locking mechanism of the wire tie, or the end of the strap, is in the interior of the vehicle, there is a very high chance that damage can be done to the top material over time due to contact. If the correct wire tie (P/N 88 88 6 900 344) is installed in the proper manner (see illustration) this cannot happen.
Correction:
Whenever an E30 convertible is in the workshop for any reason, the wire ties should be checked for proper installation. This can be easily done by reaching on top of the top frame where the tensioning spring is mounted, and feeling the wire tie with the fingertips (both sides).
If only the smooth strap area of the wire tie can be felt, the installation is correct. However, if any portion of the cut end of the strap or the locking mechanism can be felt, the installation is incorrect.
In cases where the installation is incorrect, the wire tie should be cut and removed completely from the car.