I have a 2006 R52 and I am trying to replace the two convertible hydraulic cylinders. I have already remove the old top because it was torn. I have searched for instruction but newTIS was shut down by BMW and I can't even pay because the site fails to take my payment . Does anyone know how to replace them?

 

Look in here for the Roof repair guide.
http://wtxmc.org/MiniCooperDocs/

There is also a large group of Mini related files in the "private" Facebook group "Mini Cooper DIY Help" . Cant post a link here, but just go to facebook and search and join, then look in the "Files" area.
I would upload the pdf here but it larger than the 20MB file limit allowed.

R52 and R57 roofs are virtually identical, so instructions for either are a good source to get you started

Wouldnt it be a bit weird for both cylinders to fail? Sure its not control or pump related? WHat are the symptoms? Sometimes its as dumb as the external temp sensor getting pooched and the controler thinking its too cold to open the roof.

 

The symptoms are:
The top will go up and down but when I open it,
The first part of opening works fine but the second part, I have to push it up so that it will continue to open fully.
It will go up and close fine.

 

Whats the fluid level in the pump? (see description in the technical document)
If its low check for leaks through the system as its got to be going somewhere.
Still seems unlikely that both rams would fail although seals in the cylinders can fail, its not unheard off I guess..

Have all the joints been lubed up to reduce the strain on the system.

 

The fluid level is perfect, I did lube all the parts. I wanted to change both out figuring, if one is bad, then it woud not hurt to chaneg them both.

 

So right now it needs a little manual boost to get it to start to lift automatically?
Does it close OK or does it also need some manual help?

When you are helping it does it feel like its got a lot of friction to overcome? If not that rules out one cause of the problem.
Once the electric part of the cycle has opened the sunroof you are hearing the pump cycle when its trying to open the top? That rules out issues with sensors and the module.

TBH Id be checking out the pump. My admittedly limited understanding is the cylinders are usually replaced for seal failures and the like, but if the fluid level is correct there isnt a leak to deal with.

Just hate to think of going to the effort of getting into and replacing the cylinders for that to turn out not to be the issue.

 

Yes, it needs help but a little more than a little boost after the sunroof portion is open.
It seems to close with no manual help.

I do not feel friction when opening.

Yes, I hear the pump cycle when it’s trying to open the top.
I have also orders a new (used pump). I had ordered one before, but to was defective. The replacement arrives today.