54 34 016 Removing and installing/replacing left or right hydraulic cylinder for convertible top

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 12 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW M6, 2010 BMW 650i, 2009 BMW M6, 2009 BMW 650i, and 2008 BMW M6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove EH convertible top
Position EH convertible top on special tool and close

NOTE: The hydraulic cylinder is only accessible when the convertible top is removed and closed.

If necessary, cut cable straps.

Installation:

Replace cable straps.

Fig 1: Locating Cable Straps

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove circlip.

Drive bearing pin through.

Fig 2: Identifying Bearing Pin And Circlip

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Slide hydraulic cylinder (1) forwards in direction (2) and feed out in direction (3).

Fig 3: Sliding Hydraulic Cylinder

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacing hydraulic cylinder:

IMPORTANT: Hydraulic fluid may emerge from the disconnected lines and the open connections on the hydraulic cylinder.
Protect components and work area with suitable materials (e.g. cloths).

Remove retaining bracket (1).

Disconnect hydraulic line (2).

Fig 4: Removing Retaining Bracket

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1).

Push retaining plate (2) up.

Disconnect hydraulic line (3).

Fig 5: Identifying Retaining Plate And Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.