1997 328I BMW CONVERTABLE TOP

Just follow the instructions:
http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/techarticles/101-Projects-75-Conv-Rear-Window/101-Projects-75-Conv-Rear-Window.htm

Befor you put it all the way down try to change the fold with you hand so the window will clear the seat, or look the top on the inside to see if it is coming apart.

Try adjusting the ''brake'' Its used to keep the window from moving around when your not making it. The motor may be too weak to over-ride the brake. Hope this helps.

The best way to find this leak is to use a waterhose, make sure inside is dry them start a slow water spary at the front window and only front glass it is better to have someone inside with a light looking to see a stream coming in, after a while and no leak found start moving up to the top and work your way to rear glass but do this slowly to pinpoint the leak the preson inside must look around also.

I will assume that you have a glass window ,as opposed to a clear plastic one.
Look for a tiny zipper on the window welting ,on the inside,or a sewin ,in velcro tab .
Some of the window styles will change ,without notice from the manifacturer.
Check with an upholstery shop /a glass shop,they should know this ,and most will be happy to help.
I hope this help's

There is a pull cord under the driver's side rear seat. Pull hard on it and you will dis-engage the top from the electric motor. I DO NOT know how to get it back engaged, but you probably need to take it in to your mechanic anyway. Unfortunately, when I discovered how to use the manual method of opening, it cost me $800.00 for a new convertable top motor! Good luck! Ric

the window regulator has failed. the door panel has to be removed first which requires removing the trim piece that is on the grab handle (extremely hard to remove without breaking) there are three of four screws that hold the door panel on. once the door panel is off, the vapor barrier has to be removed. don't tear it, it is there for a reason to keep water out of the vehicle. make sure you reseal it properly with window weld. once the vapor barrier is removed you will need to unclip the window glass from the regulator. i typically will take and break the tab that holds the window. once the window is loose, move the glass all the way to the top of the door. now remove the regulator, swap the motor over, and reassembly. i would recommend taking the vehicle to a bmw dealership, around $650 for the complete repair and the dealership will stand behind their repairs

http://www.bmw-convertible-window.com/E36Window.asp
only $129.00

you need to adjust the motor. under the the rear window on the inside of the trunk there is three bolts holding it in. just move in small increments and test... do you have any lights on when this happens? like "convertable top"????? you have to reprogram it then.... let me know and i can guide you thru it

possible that a commutator brush has dis-lodged from its holder...try measuring resistance to motor.....should be low around 2-5 ohms but not zero and not infinity.....the latter a clue to brush problem...the motor, if brush dis-lodged can be repaired...a matter of dis-mounting it and inspecting brushes then pry on brush with strong needle point to re-mount it....