Body - Convertible Top Design Changes
SI M 54 09 06Special Roofs
October 2006
Technical Service
SUBJECT
Convertible Top Updates
MODEL
R52 (Cooper & Cooper S Convertible)
SITUATION
Several updates have been made to the convertible top during the 2005 and 2006 model year.
This service information is intended to clarify these changes and the effect they have on service. Seal Carrier Design Change:
The seal carrier (1), which holds the rear seal for the
quarter glass, was updated with a new profile in
11/2004.
Due to a change in the attachment tabs on the canvas
top, 5 raised "ribs" (1) were added to the seal carrier
(2) to ensure flush mounting of the seal (3) into the
carrier (2).
Implications for service:
^ If the canvas top on a car produced up to 11/04 is replaced, 8 spacers (PN 7 183 399) must also be ordered. These spacers (4 per side) should be installed over the 4 lower most attachment holes.
The upper most attachment hole does not require a spacer.
Deletion of the Z-Bracket:
The Z-Bracket (1), located toward the rear of the
convertible top frame on both left and right sides, has
been deleted from the frame as of 11/2005.
Cars produced prior to 11/2005 have a cord (1) which
secures the interior side covers to the Z-Bracket (2).
Implications for service:
^ If the convertible top frame is replaced on a car produced prior to 11/2005, it will not have the Z-Bracket. Therefore, redesigned, stiffer side covers (PN 7 186 191/192), which do not have an attachment cord, must also be installed.
Addition of Stowage Locks:
Stowage locks (1), which secure the top in its open and
stowed position, have been added to the convertible
top as of 7/2006.
Each frame will have 2 stowage locks, one for the left
side and one for the right.
These locks are secured to the convertible top frame
and located behind the interior side trim covers (2).
An additional locking pin (1) has been added to each
of the front arms on the sunroof portion of the frame.
The convertible top is secured in the stowed position
by these 2 pins.
When the convertible top reaches the full, open, and
stowed position, each locking pin touches the contact
(1) on each of the stowage locks. The latch (2) will
then close on the locking pin, thus securing the
convertible top.
Implications for service:
^ Stowage locks (PN 7 170 013) are sold in pairs and should therefore be replaced in pairs.
^ This system can not be retrofitted to earlier cars.
^ All service frames will be equipped with stowage locks.
^ When replacing a frame, or complete top on a car produced before 7/2006, the frame will have to be retrofitted back to the previous design level by installing a backfitting kit (PN 7 184 988) as per repair instructions RA 54 34 ...
^ When replacing only the sunroof assembly on the frame, the additional locking pins must be cut off the replacement part. This area should then be de-burred using a file. Failure to remove these pins will result in contact with the A-pillar trim when closing the top.
PARTS INFORMATION
WARRANTY INFORMATION
For Information Only.