54 34 ... Repair Instructions For Hydraulic System of Soft Top and Soft Top Compartment Lid

54 34 ... Repair Instructions For Hydraulic System Of Soft Top And Soft Top Compartment Lid

1. Definitions of terms







2. When working on hydraulic system, observe the following
- Once it has been removed, the soft top must be safely stowed or tensioned (e.g. with screw clamps to workbench).

On some models, the special tool must be used.

The universal lever is required here.

- When the hydraulic system is open (unscrewing of lines, topping up of fluid, etc.), always provide sufficient cloths to catch leak-off fluid.

Also provide an adherent protective cover to cover/protect fittings.

- Hydraulic system must be at zero pressure.
- E46c only: The disconnected supply and return lines to the soft top can be connected to each other (establish "short circuit"). The system is thereby closed again. The clutches are protected against damage. The hydraulic system cannot build up a high pressure. The soft top can be moved.
- Disconnect or unscrew feed and return lines if possible at a later stage, when the soft top is stowed and untensioned (check fluid, see also Point 3).
- Once the hydraulic system has been opened, first check the fluid level after completing the tasks before carrying out a function test.
- After disconnecting the hydraulic lines from hydraulic components, do not move the soft top if at all possible (fluid can escape from joints).
- Piston rods must not be damaged (e.g. scratches). Even paint mist and welding spots are harmful.

When working in the vicinity of hydraulic cylinders, cover the cylinders with suitable materials.

- If the hydraulic unit or the lines stay removed for an extended period of time, the bores on the hydraulic unit and the hose connections must be sealed off (observe installation instructions).

3. Mechanical operation of soft top
- E46c: only with ignition switched off.

If lines are disconnected, connect them to each other if at all possible.

- E52/E85: Emergency operation
- In the event of repeated operation, the system fluid is pumped into the supply tank of the hydraulic unit. If hydraulic components are now replaced, there will be too much fluid in the system. This may cause damage to the system in event of operation. (Checking fluid level, see Points 4 and 5).

4. Check oil level
- E46c: only when soft top is stowed and soft top compartment lid is closed.E52, E85: with closed soft top only
- Observe brief instructions.
- Fluid level must be within the markings (circle/cross).
- Fluid is supplied with the repair kits (e.g. banjo bolts/seals, hoses, cylinders) and is available separately (refer to BMW Parts Department).

5. Topping up/extracting fluid
- E46c: only when soft top is stowed and soft top compartment lid is closed. E52E85only with soft top closed
- E64 The hydraulic fluid does not have to be changed because the system is filled with life-time fluid. Only the approved hydraulic fluid may be used in the event of leaks.
- Observe brief instructions.
- Remove hydraulic unit without detaching lines.
- Fluid is supplied with the repair kits (e.g. banjo bolts/seals, hoses, cylinders) and is available separately (refer to BMW Parts Department).
- Pour in fluid with bottle through filler opening.
- Hydraulic unit must be removed if overfilled. Allow fluid to escape through filler opening and collect.

6. Bleeding hydraulic system
- E64if there is a significant build-up of noise while the soft top is moving, the soft top must be opened and closed several times. The hydraulic system is automatically bled in the fluid reservoir in the process.