54 34 996 Replacing left or right main pillar

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Necessary preliminary tasks: Partially remove SOFT TOP COVER (at main pillar).

Carefully pull headlining towards rear.

Release screws (1) on C-pillar cover (2).

Tightening torque 54 34 16AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Screws On C-Pillar Cover

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If necessary, disconnect rivet connection (1) from soft top cover (2) at main pillar.

IMPORTANT: Completely remove rivet residue.

Fig 2: Identifying Rivet Connection On Soft Top Cover

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) on main pillar.

IMPORTANT: Adjusting nut (2) must not be released.

For better accessibility, move soft top screw (3) slightly towards "Close".

Release screw (3) on main pillar.

NOTE: Secure plastic washer (4) when removing the screw.

Installation note:

Plastic washer (4) must be fitted correctly on screw collar during installation. Plastic washer (4) must not be crushed on soft top frame (5).

Coat screws (1, 3) with screw locking agent.

Tightening torque 54 34 17AZ .

Feed out main pillar.

Fig 3: Identifying Screws, Nuts, And Washers

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Modify guide pin of main pillar:

Measure and note down setting dimension A of guide pin at former main pillar.

Dimension A = outer edge of main pillar (2) up to collar of nut (1) Slacken nut (1).

Align guide pin to dimension A at new main pillar (2) and tighten.

Tightening torque 54 34 18AZ .

Fig 4: Modifying Guide Pin Of Main Pillar

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Main pillar with guide pin (1) must be correctly seated in guide (2).

Fig 5: Identifying Guide And Main Pillar With Guide Pin

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Check setting of main pillar:

Completely close soft top.

Check setting dimension A of main pillar (1) up to trim strip (2).

Dimension a = approx. 1 mm.

IMPORTANT:

When trim strip (2) is removed a larger setting dimension A applies.

Dimension A (from main pillar up to side wall rear) = 4.5 mm.

Fig 6: Checking Setting Of Main Pillar

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.