SI EM softtop not functioning E36 Convertible

VK-23, Rothenstein Baugruppe/Group: 54
54 03 96 (090)
EM softtop not functioning
E36 Convertible
weltweit
all countries
06/1996
Complaint:
Cause:
Remedy:
The EM softtop does not always function.
Diagnosis using the Tester indicates the following fault pattern: current flow through the
convertible softtop module (CVM) is too high or the motor outputs are short-circuited to
ground.
When lifting the softtop bow over the dead-center position, the tensioning bar does not lift off
the softtop compartment lid adequately due to the tensioning-bar push rod being set too
long.
The softtop linkage does not reach the position over dead center and the drive motor cannot
lift the softtop bow.
The CVM cuts out.
Check whether the rear tensioning bar visibly lifts off the softtop compartment lid when the
front softtop bow is lifted. If it does not lift off the lid, adjust the tensioning-bar push rod as
described below:
Procedure: - Open the side windows.
- Unlatch the softtop at the front and lift it over the dead-center position.
- Position the tensioning bar and softtop lid vertical (keep activating the softtop drive until
the softtop lid is open as far as it will go). The tensioning bar then stands almost vertical
and microswitch S2 is actuated.
- In this position (see fig. 1), unhook the tensioning-bar push rod (see
fig. 2 - (4)) from the softtop. Do not unscrew the connection between the tensioning-bar
push rod and the trailing lever (3).
- From the rear, position the trailing lever (3) so that it makes contact with the bolt (see
arrow, fig. 2).
- Push the tensioning bar towards the front of the car as far as it will go.
- In this position, adjust the tensioning-bar push rod to the correct length and reattach it
to the softtop.
SI EM softtop not functioning E36 Convertible BMW AG - TIS 28.09.2007 14:49
Issue status (06/2006) Valid only until next DVD is issued Copyright Page - 1 -

Figure 1:
Softtop position required for adjusting the push rod
Figure 2:
1 Drive lever
2 Main push rod
3 Trailing lever
4 Tensioning-bar push rod (length adjustable)
Position the trailing lever so that it makes contact with the bolt "on the side marked by the
arrow".
Reimbursement: Material and labour costs incurred can be claimed through the usual warranty channels
subject to current warranty terms as follows:
Defect code 54 34 00 52 00
Job number 00 51 194
Labour 6
SI EM softtop not functioning E36 Convertible BMW AG - TIS 28.09.2007 14:49
Issue status (06/2006) Valid only until next DVD is issued Copyright Page - 2 -

Warranty type 1
Warranty stage 1
The deadline for submitting claims is December 1997 .
SI EM softtop not functioning E36 Convertible BMW AG - TIS 28.09.2007 14:49
Issue status (06/2006) Valid only until next DVD is issued Copyright Page - 3 -