Convertible roof

[DarrenE30]

Hi all, new to this forum. I have inherited a j plate e30 convertible in need of some work so hoping you guys will be able to help me out along the way a˜‰

My first question is the roof is in need of being replaced. It is a electric roof and I have seen a 2nd hand manual roof for sale, does anyone know if the roof and frame are the same?

Thanks in advanced
Darren [/b]

[Stefan on probation]

Carhood.com do replacement roofs, I don't think the manual frame is the same as the the electric one, Gerts the man to speak to about this though as he had his electric one redone but had a few issues.

[Gert_8]

Thanks Sexy - you really need to ask the mods to change your user name back...!

However, I have only owned a cab fitted with an electric roof. I suspect the frames are the same, but the operating mechs will be different, so it's possible you cannot inter-change.

With reference to Carhood, they will replace replace the material (3 choices) but they do also mess up the electrical system (they may even warn you about this themselves). Go for the full hit, i.e. Straps, rubber front rail etc.

Note, even having done this, they do not offer any guarantees on leaks. a˜„

[Stefan on probation]

Thanks Sexy - you really need to ask the mods to change your user name back...!

I did ask it was suggested Knob Head or Cockwomble so I left it as it was.....

[Gert_8]

Oh! That's mature.

[Stefan on probation]

I would assume that if you wanted to get the roof recovered then it would be a good idea to disconnect anything to do with the electric side of things and once the roof has be recovered then connect it up yourself.

Depending on where you are based I know someone who had his roof redone at C E Moore in Park Royal, tension straps the whole shebang and electrics all worked, might be an idea on getting a quote.

http://www.cemoore.co.uk

[Gert_8]

If you have your roof replaced, it's assumed the people doing it would be able to cope with the electrical systems ...
not the case with Carhood.

[Stefan on probation]

Thats why I suggested C E Moore bit more expensive I'd assume.

[DarrenE30]

Thanks for the replies,
I think I will give the second hand roof a miss then

[HartgeH27]

Electric soft tops and manual soft tops are completely different.

[BenHar]

Electric soft tops and manual soft tops are completely different.

Are they? I thought they were the same except for some minor differences in the frame?

Ben

[HartgeH27]

No they are not interchangeable

[BenHar]

What are the differences?

I think the canvas/cloth cover is the same?

Thanks
Ben

[HartgeH27]

No it is not, a manual soft top will not fit an electric roof.