Z3 Roadster (E36/7) Hardtop questions

I have a hardtop that i bought for my z3 a couple of years back. I want to install it and i have been trying to find out what parts i need. I don't want to do the defroster or any sort of wiring, i just want to get it in and go. So my question is what parts do i need if i want to install it without the defroster? Do i need any seals of some sort so it doesn't leek or should it be good if i just clamp it down?

There is mounting kit that must be installed on your car. It is basically some brackets that are installed at the top of the B pillars on the door frame (nearest the locks on the door).

There is also an optional hardtop spacer kit that provides some plastic pieces that help you align the hardtop so it doesn't scratch paint or leak.

The hardtop comes with seals.

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=425252

Thank you all for your help.

Also had one more question, if i do not have an electric top at the moment, when i buy the mounting kit can i hook up the rear defroster or is that going to be a lost cause?

Originally Posted by Jortiz96

Also had one more question, if i do not have an electric top at the moment, when i buy the mounting kit can i hook up the rear defroster or is that going to be a lost cause?

If you don't have an electrohydraulic top (not available until 1998), then defroster switch installation will require some disassembly of the rear console. This is rather tedious though not difficult. The BMW instructions can be a bit hard to decipher but overall it is a fun project.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...light=Rjcoston

Oh, and be careful removing various components, you have a 16 yo car so plastic things are brittle. Some more helpful photos in this thread.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum....php?t=1132786

thank you so much.

I think ill be skipping the defroster for now as i live in a somewhat warm state anyway and i don't feel like tearing apart my car.

Do you guys know how to take those foam pieces out when you are getting ready to put the hardtop in?.....do you just pull them out?