E36 M3 Evo convertable help

[matt1275]

I have just bought the cheapest m3 evo convertable ever i think on a whim and for this i have several jobs to do, car is a 96 has covered 60k with history but two things i need to know

I have read many questions on here about the vanos being dodgy. What is vanos and how will i know if mines knackered

second the roof does not come down it does absolutely nothing no noises clickings or anything else,does anyone know of any areas to try first ie dodgy areas or componets

[XM5er]

Vanos is easy get the vin and ring BMW UK or go to a dealer who will check the database. Have a read of this and check for rattles http://forum.bmwcarmagazine.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=23624#274302
and this
http://forum.bmwcarmagazine.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=20285

With the roof it sounds like you are about to find out that there is no such thing as a free lunch I'm afraid.

[matt1275]

thanks for the info on the vanos and i kinda guessed i was into some kind of nightmare with the roof but hey ho will have to get my electrically orientated head on and very busy i guess

[colinrob]

How much was it? I am thinking of buying one myself

[gemini]

Just bought a 328i con P plate with 33K
Im in the Beemer club too!

[chim_girl]

E36 M3 Evo Convertible.


Yo Bro's

[gemini]

Mines had a new main motor for the roof as it too wouldnt close (previous owner)

[stuh]

matt1275 said:

second the roof does not come down it does absolutely nothing no noises clickings or anything else,does anyone know of any areas to try first ie dodgy areas or componets

You might be lucky. The total lack of response sounds like the problem with my EVO roof back in '99 - It was a blown fuse and cost about £80 to put right!

[JRSE]

My roof failed a few weeks ago. I believe the motor has died - nowt happens when the button is pressed. Also the tension straps need replacing. Service is due soon too - deep joy!

Oh and last week I had new rear tyres!

[matt1275]

Hmm like the sound of the fuse that would be superb motor sounds hideously expensive,can i put it down without power or do i need it no special catches anywhere for putting down manually that any one has heard of? As for what i paid for the car well less than i can find a coupe m3 for never mind an evo but had to put in a clutch and new back tyres deep joy got to get them yet and fix this darn roof auto electrician coming Tuesday so will know more then and if any one has an offer for the car let me know

[XM5er]

Have you just stuck this on ebay?

[gemini]

manual release of the auto roof can cause problems with the lock down mechanism I believe?

[matt1275]

XM5er said:

Have you just stuck this on ebay?

I have indeed its either my esprit or the bm something has to give i wish it didnt though