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 1, I’ll walk your through the process to remove the convertible top from your Z3, pointing out some of the gotchas along the way. With patience and the right tools, you can have a beautiful, waterproof, new top on your old Z3. So hit the links below, kit up, and let’s give it a try!

Here is a link to part 2:
   • 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/3TX9MoT (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
01:02 The Tools You’ll Need
01:49 The Parts You’ll Need
02:18 Starting At The Top
02:41 Removing The Gaskets and A Word About Organization
03:24 Removing The Front Cross Member and Retaining Cables
04:07 Don’t Mistake 1 - Tension Straps
04:24 Removing The Window Well Screws
05:04 Pulling Out The Cables
05:17 Removing the Top From The Cross Members Working To The Back
06:10 Cutting Off The Top
07:10 The Rear Tension Strap
07:32 The Hard Part Begins
07:44 Understanding How The Top Is Attached To The Car
08:31 The Corner 10mm Bolts
08:45 Which Bolts To Remove From The Bow
08:56 The Covering Cap and The Rear Gasket
09:13 Protection! - Tape It Up!
09:41 Removing The Bow
10:28 Removing The Rear Tension Straps
10:50 Wrap-Up

#mainejason

*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.