328IC manual top open and close steps

BMW 328IC
E36
Instructions for opening and closing full auto convertible top manually. It is a cumbersome
Process but it works.

With Top up and closed…to put it down.

1. Open trunk and disengage both top motors. *
2. Lower driver and passenger door windows half way or so,
3. Sit in front seat, insert 3/16” hex wrench into top mechanism ( use a power screw driver for convenience)**
4. Turn hex clockwise to release top from windshield. ( Takes many many turns) Continue turning until top is clear from windshield by 12 to 16 inches.
5. Raise back of top clear of tonneau cover.
6. Raise tonneau cover. ( head liner may clog in well, if so clear manually)
7. Collapse top into tonneau well.
8. Close tonneau cover.
9. Place a 10 lb weight on the right side to hold cover down so latch will catch in step 12
10. Raise trunk and re-engage tonneau cover motor. ( the rear motor ) Ignore the forward top motor.
11. Sit in front drivers seat.
12. Press and hold top down button
13. While holding button down, turn key to #2 position and hold till tonneau cover latches. ( 20 or 30 seconds)

With top down and in well…to raise

1. Open truck and disengage both motors
2. Lift tonneau and bring top out ( may require help)
3. Extend top to front as far as possible. Do not force.
4. Press down on passenger side of tonneau to lock.
5. Insert hex wrench into top mechanism and turn counter clockwise until top descends and locks.

*Sometimes the tonneau cover motor will jam and not release with release levers. If so tap the housing with a brisk hammer hit and it will release.

** I keep the power screw driver in glove compartment with extra batteries for convenience.

NICE first posting! Very useful, since SO many come here looking for help with convertible top problems.

Welcome to the fest!