BMW Z3 Convertible Top Replacement - Part 2: Installation

My BMW Z3 is 25 years old and is in need of a new convertible top. Replacing the top in this convertible is an advanced project, but there is not a lot of detailed information out there on how to do it - that’s why I’m making these videos. In Part 2, we will clean up the car to get it ready and then install the new top. I’ll also show you the mistakes I made so you can avoid them. This is a long one, so buckle up, and let’s give it a try!

Here is a link to part 1:
   • BMW Z3 Convertible Top Replacement - ...  

TOOLS:
TEKON 3/8” Drive 36-Piece Torx Bit Set - https://amzn.to/3L7odC1 (Amazon)*
TEKON 3/8” Drive Deep 6-PointMetric Socket Set - https://amzn.to/3OZ2Zas (Amazon)*
CRAFTSMAN Screwdriver Set - https://amzn.to/3szisqm (Amazon)*
Trim Upholstery Clip Tool Set - https://amzn.to/3sEt72X (Amazon)*
CRAFTSMAN Slip Joint Plier - https://amzn.to/3P2YFHa (Amazon)*
4-Piece Pick Set - https://amzn.to/3EkdbFJ (Amazon)*
Telescoping Magnetic Pick-Up Tool - https://amzn.to/3L6XKVf (Amazon)*
Brass Brazing Rods 3/32” 40-Pieces - https://amzn.to/3Eoevao (Amazon)*
Pop Rivet Tool - https://amzn.to/3OSu6Us (Amazon)*
Folding Utility Knife - https://amzn.to/3PmuKeu (Amazon)*
TEKON 3/8” Drive Ratchet - https://amzn.to/47ZdXWg (Amazon)*
Arrow Pneumatic Staple Gun - https://amzn.to/3QZc9GF (Amazon)*
DEWALT Impact Driver - https://amzn.to/3qP3TOW (Amazon)*
DEWALT Drill Kit - https://amzn.to/45NMdli (Amazon)*
DEWALT Drill Bit Set - https://amzn.to/3L5SJwa (Amazon)*
3M Blue Painter’s Tape - https://amzn.to/45BST6G (Amazon)*
Black Duct Tape - https://amzn.to/3qXl2G1 (Amazon)*
Markal Paint Pen - https://amzn.to/3R4N2SJ (Amazon)*

PARTS:
**2024 Update**
There have been reports that the top linked below has changed since I purchased mine. The main difference is the lack of sewn-in plastic retainers around the side windows. I've been told folks have been successful installing this alternate version, but I wanted to let you know there may be a difference to what you see in the video.

Sierra Auto Tops Convertible Top - https://amzn.to/3L5vjXJ (Amazon)*

** End 2024 Update**

3M Windo-Weld Ribbon Sealer 5/16”x15’ - https://amzn.to/3sK1q8I (Amazon)*
3M Super Trim Adhesive - https://amzn.to/3PnCNaM (Amazon)*
T50 Stainless Steel Staples (10mm) - https://amzn.to/3LYckhB (Amazon)*
Black Domed Head Rivets - https://www.mcmaster.com/catalog/129/...
BMW Covering Caps #51-71-8-401-844-BOE - https://www.pelicanparts.com/More_Inf...
Tension Strap Set - https://www.convertibletopguys.com/ca... (scroll down to Installation Supplies)

LIGHTING:
GVM 50RS LED Light Kit - https://amzn.to/3BHJkqi (Amazon)*
CLAR 2-Light SoftBox Kit - https://amzlorCon.to/3eIV2Yp (Amazon)*
ColorChecker Passport Video - https://amzn.to/3U8gWET (Amazon)*

MUSIC:
Music from Epidemic Sound - 30 Day Free Trial
https://share.epidemicsound.com/fnsd2b

**As an Amazon Associate I earn a small percentage from qualifying purchases. There is absolutely no cost to you.*

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 The Intro
00:41 Cleaning Off The Sealing Frame
01:02 Removing The Old Tension Straps
01:11 Installing New Tension Straps
02:21 How To Remove Rivets
03:20 On The Bench - Preparing The Bow
05:00 On The Bench - Replacing Rear Tension Straps
06:31 Preparing To Connect The Bow To The Top
06:50 Attaching The Top To The Sides Of The Bow
07:17 Stapling The Top To The Bow
09:21 Applying The Butyl Ribbon Tape
09:47 Installing The Bow And Top
11:19 Bonding And Bolting The Top To The Frame
12:23 Connecting Rear Tension Straps
13:33 Installing The Top Straps According To The Literature - Don’t Do It!
14:27 Connecting The Hold Down To The Window Channel
14:36 Dealing With The Tension Cables
16:55 Connecting The Front Of the Top To The Frame
17:39 Making The Window Well Connections
18:13 Working On The Front - And A Mistake
21:08 Locking Down The Top
21:48 Inside The Car - Cross member 1 - Huge Mistake
23:21 Inside The Car - Cross member 2
23:55 Inside The Car - Cross member 3 - Lesson Learned
25:11 Installing The Window Gaskets
25:46 Installing The Rear Seal and Cover Clips
26:58 Replacing The Lining
27:24 Installing The Side Straps
28:01 Fixing The Straps To The Right Place
28:59 Wrap-Up

#mainejason #diy

*Disclaimer:
This video is strictly for entertainment purposes. The content within portrays one particular solution and process, but in no way claims to be the only, or even the correct solution. Should you choose to follow any of the processes shown in this video, you do so at your own risk - the creator of this content is in no way responsible for damages to individuals or property resulting from using the information herein.