Convertible - Knock/Thump Noise During Operation

SI B54 01 13
Special Roofs

April 2013
Technical Service

SUBJECT
Convertible Top Makes Thumping Noise During Operation

MODEL
E88

SITUATION
The rear window on the convertible top contacts the top hoop, and makes a knocking noise when opening or closing the convertible top.

CAUSE
The tolerance between the convertible top rear window and the convertible top cover hoop is insufficient.

PROCEDURE

1. Duplicate the issue.





2. This picture shows the parts contained in the service kit for the convertible top brace. It contains 2 spacer sleeves (A) and 1 spring plate (B).

3. Position the top in the service position, as shown.





4. Switch off the ignition.

5. Using an appropriate tool, prop both the convertible top and the storage compartment lid open.

6. Locate the hydraulic cylinders on both the left and right. The left side is shown in the picture.





7. This picture shows the top of the tension rod for the convertible top hydraulic cylinder without the spacer sleeve installed.

8. Using your hand manually, move the rear portion of the convertible top with the glass to expose the tension rod.





9. Install the spacer sleeve over the top of the hydraulic cylinder, as shown.

10. Install one spacer sleeve on each side.

Note:
When installing the spacer sleeve, the notch must be facing downward.

11. The left side is shown in this picture.





12. This picture shows the sleeve installed on the right-side hydraulic cylinder.

13. Press down on the spacer sleeve to ensure it is properly installed, as shown.





14. On the right side of the vehicle, locate the convertible top fabric holder guide arm, indicated by the circle.

15. Follow the guide arm down to its lower section. This area is indicated by the square.





16. Attach the spring plate to the fabric holder guide arm on the right side of the vehicle, as shown.

17. This will correct the shift point of the Hall sensor, thus limiting the travel of the convertible top and preventing the rear glass from contacting the rear hoop of the top.

18. Retest the operation of the convertible top by performing a complete open and close operation.

Note:
Operating the top will ensure the spacer sleeves are properly snapped in over the hydraulic cylinder.





PARTS INFORMATION





WARRANTY INFORMATION

Covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle/SAV Limited Warranty.

If work time labor operation 54 34 001 includes the technician's time for accepting the repair order, final inspection of the vehicle and the return of the repair order to dispatch, labor operation 54 34 001 is then considered a Main labor operation.

Work time (WT) labor operation 54 34 001 requires an individual punch time.

Even though work time labor operation code 54 99 000 ends in "000," it is not considered a Main labor operation.