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54 34... Repair instructions for hydraulic system of convertible top and convertible top compartment lid

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  1. Definitions of terms 
    DEFINITIONS OF TERMS

    Hydraulic system at zero pressure
    or
    Untensioned state:
    • Turn ignition lock to "0" position.
    • E46c: Wait 15 seconds

      E52: Wait 2 minutes

      E85: Emergency actuation or wait 2 minutes

      E64: Wait 5 seconds.

    Hydraulic system has no or only very low pressure
    Mechanical actuation:
    Emergency actuation:
    • Convertible top is opened or closed by hand
    • Always move convertible top with aid of a second person
    Observe Point 3
    Closed system:
    • All lines are connected
    "Even short-circuiting of lines is possible"
    Function Test:
    • Open and close convertible top several times (min. 3 times)
    • Check fluid level in hydraulic unit; if necessary, top up fluid
    refer to Operating Instructions
    Short circuit (E46c only):
    • Unfastening of quick-release couplings
    • Connection of supply and return lines
    Hydraulic system cannot build up pressure
    Convertible top can be moved
    Function Test:
    • Checking of convertible top function if possible on removed convertible top
    Convertible top must be secured! Move 2-3 times
    Convertible top stowed:
    • Convertible top fully open (folded together)
    When the convertible top is installed, it is in the closed convertible top compartment
  2. When working on hydraulic system, observe the following 
    • Once it has been removed, the convertible top must be safely stowed or tensioned (e.g. with screw clamps to work bench).

      On some models, the special tool  must be used.

    • 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 convertible 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 convertible top can be moved.
    • Disconnect or unscrew feed and return lines if possible at a later stage, when the convertible top is stowed and untensioned (check fluid, see OPERATING FLUIDS - SUNROOF AND CONVERTIBLE TOP. ).
    • 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 convertible 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 fitting instructions).
  3. Mechanical operation of convertible top 
    • E46c: only with ignition switched off.

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

    • E52/E85: Emergency actuation 
    • In the event of repeated actuation, 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 actuation. (Checking fluid level, see OPERATING FLUIDS - SUNROOF AND CONVERTIBLE TOP. ).
  4. Check fluid level 
    • E46c: only when convertible top is stowed and convertible top compartment lid is closed.

      E52, E85: only with convertible top closed.

    • 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 OPERATING FLUIDS - SUNROOF AND CONVERTIBLE TOP. ).
  5. Top up/extract fluid 
    • E46c: only when convertible top is stowed and convertible top compartment lid is closed.

      E52, E85: only with convertible 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 Service).
    • Pour in fluid with bottle through filling orifice.
    • Hydraulic unit must be removed if overfilled. Allow fluid to escape through filling orifice and collect.
  6. Bleeding hydraulic system 
    • E64: if there is a significant build-up of noise while the convertible top is moving, the convertible top must be opened and closed several times. The hydraulic system is automatically bled in the fluid reservoir in the process.