Manual sunroof crank droop!

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moncon
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Joined: Wed Jun 20, 2012 11:00 pm

Sun Apr 07, 2019 1:41 pm

Hi, the crank handle of my manual sunroof has started drooping at a 45 degree angle. As far as I know it hasn't been drinking so it's not brewer's droop - perhaps the trim ring needs replacing? I tightened the various screws, there doesn't appear to be anything broken or damaged; it just started drooping the other day. Annoying!
Oseanosea
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Mon Apr 08, 2019 3:21 pm

I have the same issue. Disassembled and reassembled. No improvement. Any ideas out there?
“Keep lowering your standards until goals are met.”
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Brianmoooore
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Mon Apr 08, 2019 11:39 pm

I've come across this a few times, but never successfully repaired one. The original design seems to be only just strong enough to keep the handle in its intended position, so the slightest wear or deterioration, and down it comes.
I have vague memories of fixing the one in my first E30 with a handle from (probably) an E21 which was a straight swap, but a more substantial design.
Otherwise, the two solutions are either a new OE handle, if they're still available, or a conversion to electric.
Oseanosea
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Wed Apr 10, 2019 12:59 am

Thanks again Brian!
“Keep lowering your standards until goals are met.”
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Shutthatdoor
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Thu Apr 11, 2019 7:25 pm

Why not try a repair with magnets ? You can get very small strong magnets that would sit in the recess of the handle, secured with araldite or something. I've not looked where you might fit the other on the mechanism but it might be worth investigating. Can always be painted to hide too if needs be.
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moncon
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Fri Apr 12, 2019 10:41 am

Good call! I'll look into it, cheers.
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