Soft top problem

[Donkeyoaty]

Just as the weather is ideal for a soft top, it has let me down. It was working faultlessly, but today it didn't work. No power at all. I guess it could be a fuse. Has anyone any fault finding advice for this. Firstly is there just the one fuse and where is it?
Thanks

 

[t-tony]

More likely the micro switch or wiring to same on n/s of roof frame just behind passengers seat. I beleive you can disconnect the ram off the frame and use it manually?

Tony.

 

[GazHyde]

This shows the micro switch issue in better detail...

https://zroadster.org/articles/bmw-z3-hood-micro-switch-replacement.52/

 

[GazHyde]

Also check your rear brake lights are working, as the brake pedal switch is part of the system. Senses your foot is actually on the pedal before you can use the roof.

 

[t-tony]

Also check your rear brake lights are working, as the brake pedal switch is part of the system. Senses your foot is actually on the pedal before you can use the roof.

Does your Z4 have to have the stop lights lit to operate your roof Gaz, I have come to realise lately that my car does not and wondered if it should?

Tony.

 

[Donkeyoaty]

Also check your rear brake lights are working, as the brake pedal switch is part of the system. Senses your foot is actually on the pedal before you can use the roof.

Gaz
I think you are right. The brake lights are not coming on. I got on my back under the footwell, removed a plastic cowling around the pedals. I could see the spring above the brake pedal but not the switch...any ideas as to how to access it ?

 

[GazHyde]

Its fitted directly on the pedal mechanism, so you should be able to see it with the panels removed - or if you are a contortionist without. Haven't had to do one myself though!

 

[Donkeyoaty]

Its fitted directly on the pedal mechanism, so you should be able to see it with the panels removed - or if you are a contortionist without. Haven't had to do one myself though!

Thanks Gaz
I have taken off the large panel above the one I had originally taken off and this gives reasonable access to the switch without having to get into contortions. Its one of those black plastic block connectors with the switch on the end of it. I have just ordered a new one. My next problem is I can't work out how to remove the old one. I know you havn't done this Gaz, so maybe someone else could advise. I have tried using pliers to compress the plastic at the switch end to allow it to slip through the metal hole. Its got plastic tabs that spring out and hold it in place when you push the unit through the metal hole, but short of cutting it off I can't get any movement out of it. There is probably some simple technique!

 

[t-tony]

Thanks Gaz
I have taken off the large panel above the one I had originally taken off and this gives reasonable access to the switch without having to get into contortions. Its one of those black plastic block connectors with the switch on the end of it. I have just ordered a new one. My next problem is I can't work out how to remove the old one. I know you havn't done this Gaz, so maybe someone else could advise. I have tried using pliers to compress the plastic at the switch end to allow it to slip through the metal hole. Its got plastic tabs that spring out and hold it in place when you push the unit through the metal hole, but short of cutting it off I can't get any movement out of it. There is probably some simple technique!

Most brake light switches fit with a bayonet type fixing. Try turning it anywhere from 45 - 90 degrees either way and see it if loosens the switch.

Tony.

 

[Donkeyoaty]

I have just sorted out the problem in time for a cup of tea and a biscuit out of the rain.
I got a new German made brake switch. It was murder to get the old one out. I had to break up the old switch to remove it. The new one wouldn't engage in the metal housing. It has plastic tangs that compress and engage at the back of the metal housing. After a lot of filing down and trials (I didn't want to take too much off) it eventually went in. I have had a load of old British sports cars and the brake switches have a nut behind the switch ...simples. Anyway I trialed it before I fixed it in and I had brake lights back working again. Finally I tested the roof soft top and it is back working.
So a big thanks to all who all who replied. Just need the sun now.

 

[Redline]

Does your Z4 have to have the stop lights lit to operate your roof Gaz, I have come to realise lately that my car does not and wondered if it should?

Tony.

That could be the gaptech overriding the inputs to the roof controller. I'll check mine (when it isn't raining).

 

[t-tony]

Cheers Ian, I had lost hope of getting an answer to my question if I'm honest!

Tony.

 

[Brian4]

I have just sorted out the problem in time for a cup of tea and a biscuit out of the rain.
I got a new German made brake switch. It was murder to get the old one out. I had to break up the old switch to remove it. The new one wouldn't engage in the metal housing. It has plastic tangs that compress and engage at the back of the metal housing. After a lot of filing down and trials (I didn't want to take too much off) it eventually went in. I have had a load of old British sports cars and the brake switches have a nut behind the switch ...simples. Anyway I trialed it before I fixed it in and I had brake lights back working again. Finally I tested the roof soft top and it is back working.
So a big thanks to all who all who replied. Just need the sun now.

Bit late I guess but here is the way to remove/refit the brake light switch.
Pull the white plunger out then pull the red lock ring and the tangs are released. It's done this way so that the switch is locked in place and won't push out when you put your foot on the brake.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m13PvjsRsBk