Introduction
ELECTRO-MECHANICAL (E-M) CONVERTIBLE TOP:
Description:
An electro-mechanically operated convertible top mechanism has been developed for the E30 (3-Series) convertible, which allows the top to be lowered or raised without leaving the driver's seat. Other than lowering/ raising the windows and releasing/fastening the front of the top frame, operation of the top is accomplished by pushing one button.
Visually, the soft top is virtually identical to the manually operated top, with the only changes being the addition of spring rods to aid in proper folding of the top material as it is being lowered into the storage well.
Operation:
Due to the heavy electrical load, it is recommended that the engine be running whenever the top is operated. However, it will operate in ignition position 1 or 2 as long as there is sufficient voltage (more than 10.5 volts) in the battery, and the vehicle is not moving.
Fully lower the front and rear windows. Apply downward pressure to the center handle on the top frame and unlock the left and right latches. Push up on the top frame at the center handle so that the top frame comes clear of the windshield frame and the top frame goes up past the over-center point.
Depress the operating switch (above the radio) and hold down until the top is fully stowed in the storage compartment and the storage lid is closed and locked.
To raise the top, reverse the above procedure.
Note: The windows should be lowered whenever the top is operated. BMW convertible windows are not designed to remain in the raised position when the top is down. They will rattle if left in the raised position and the vehicle is driven with the top down.
Emergency Operation Procedure:
In the event of a system failure the top can be raised by utilizing the emergency operation procedure, which is also described in the Owner's Manual. This procedure should only be used to raise the top. If the emergency operation procedure is used to lower the top and the vehicle is driven, damage to the vehicle can occur as the storage compartment lid will not stay shut.
Using the centering pin from the tool kit, insert in hole 1 and push to the left.
^ Insert in hole 2 and push upwards. This uncouples the top actuating mechariism.
^ Using the 4 mm allen wrench from the tool kit, insert into hole 3 and turn clockwise. This unlatches the storage lid.
^ The top may now be raised and secured manually.
Once the emergency operation procedure has been used, the drives must be reconnected at the dealership and readjusted if necessary.
Component Location View:
System
Components: The E-M top system includes:
Top actuating motor with microswitches
Top actuating linkages
Storage lid motor with microswitches
Storage lid linkage, cable and latches
Control unit
Actuating switch
Windshield frame microswitch
The top actuating motor drives the rear bow linkage as well as the main frame linkage, dependent on the positions of the microswitches mounted on the motor.
The storage lid motor latches and unlatches the storage lid through the cable and latch assemblies, and lifts and lowers the storage lid, dependent on the positions of the microswitches mounted on the motor.
The control unit engergizes the actuating motors as required through four relays in the unit. It receives inputs from the actuating switch, a speed signal to prevent operation if the car is moving, and microswitch inputs from the two motors to indicate position.
The control unit has an ovedoad protection circuit which will prevent motor operation in case of an overload. If this protection drcuit trips three times, the system deactivates for 15 minutes, as long as the ignition remains switched ON.
The actuating switch operates the top both up and down.
The windshield microswitch prevents operation of the system if the top is in contact with the front latches.
Special Tools And Repair Procedures:
The following special tools have been developed in order to work on the E-M system:
Description Part Number
Pin Wrench 88 88 6 543 410
Microswitch gauge 88 88 6 543 420
Microswitch tester 88 88 6 614 440
Adapter cable 88 88 6 614 450