I was wondering if anyone has any experience in converting a semi-automatic top on the 94 325ic to a fully manual one?

I have to get out of the car anyway to "help" the system close and tuck the top away nicely.

With all the systemic problems with the top, headliners, microswitches, etc. it would seem to me easiest just to ditch all the electronics and go to a manual system? The only thing I can see you would need to create once the bypass level was pulled is a way to engage the top's cover locking mechanism.

Any thoughts here?

On a fully mandraulic version the lid is locked mechanically and is unlocked by pulling two handles located on the rear doorcards (same handles as the front door unlock handles, mounted upside down).

Or only ditch the toplock (A pillar) and roof opening/closing motor and simply keep the motor that opens/closes the rear lip. You could still use the switch to operate it. You just open/close the lid with the switch and the rest is then mandraulic.

The Power Tops were so problematic on the 1991-1993 E30 325i Convertibles, BMW actually produced a kit to convert them to manual. I haven't heard that they have done that for the E36s but it might be worth a phone call.

thanks guy....anyone have any ideas on how to disable all the microswitches and enable the top's cover hatch locking mechanism?

Thanks MParallel...so the locks on the top cover lid on the manual top 325ic are controlled by door latches just like on the door side panel? (except upside down?)

Thanks MParallel...so the locks on the top cover lid on the manual top 325ic are controlled by door latches just like on the door side panel? (except upside down?)

That's correct (as you operate them from outside the car, reaching in).

I bought my 328 with the top in non working condition. I disconnected the motor, and mounted small latches on the tonneau cover so it latches onto the side door panel so the tonneau doesn't fly up while driving. I bought solid brass latches, they aren't too big, and they have worked great with no problems at all since I have had the car. They don't look too bad, and are out of the way of back seat passengers. I can take the top up or down in less than 30 seconds by myself, without a lot of effort. The only thing to remember is that the tonneau has to close tight to trigger a microswitch that allows the trunk to open. Be sure to mount the latch so that the cover is tight enough. You will hear the switch click as you press down on the tonneau cover. I know some will say this isn't a good idea, but it works well, and cost me less than $10