Converting Hinge For Convertible Top Compartment Lid

A technical modification on the hinge for the convertible top compartment lid was introduced in production in June 1998. This modification involves repositioning of the operating pin on the lever arm of the hinge for the convertible top compartment lid, and the additional flap now moves differently.

For the purpose of repair or replacement capability of the additional flap, it is necessary to reposition one of the operating pins on the hinge for the convertible top compartment lid in the case of vehicles with the old additional flap:
Up to Vehicle Identification Number
99 ZWS 64 08 13 RoW
99 7XS 65 01 08 USA.

Use drilling template 9644 (special tool) to position the new operating pin. The drilling template can be used for the left and right sides.

Procedure:
1. Convertible top service position, see: Service and Repair / Convertible Top. Procedures
2. For instructions on removing the additional flap. Additional Flap

Fig. 1:

3. Place drilling template on the two operating pins. Make sure that the smaller bore of the drilling template faces up and the inscription (single letter) is allocated to the correct side. (R = right or L = left.) The template must be fitted with the appropriate letter on the inner side opposite the lever arm of the hinge. Drill a dia 4.0 mm through-hole in the lever arm.

Fig. 2:

4. Saw off the operating pin of the lever arm (arrow) using a saw blade and saw blade holder.
Fill in the paint damage on the lever arm using paint of the same colour as the vehicle.

Fig. 3:

5. Position new operating pin in the bore of the lever arm and fasten it with a self-locking M4 hexagon nut.
6. Fit new additional flap.
For instructions on installing the additional flap. Additional Flap