BMW Repair: 1999 BMW Z3 2.8L Roadster, bmw z3, hall sensors

Question
I am having a convertible top problem.  It started as the top not retracting if parked on a slant.  Then it progressed to stopping halfway up or down.  Now it is completely not working.  How do I troubleshoot whether it is a problem with the motor, or the top sensor, or the brake sensor, or the switch itself?  Or is it worth disconnecting the motor as I have seen posted in other places?


Answer
Keith, it is hard to diagnose the convertible top without seeing the statuses of the Hall sensors and switches. I would have this diagnosed at the dealer or a well versed BMW independent who has the same style equipment. You don't have to physically disconnect the motor you just have to turn the little T-handle on the pump counter-clockwise a little bit to open the bypass in the hydraulic circuit to move the top manually.
-Evan