Omar Khalid
BMW Z3 owners may find themselves needing to replace their rear window due to issues such as discolouration, cracks, scratches, or a broken plastic bead. While some choose to approach BMW for a replacement, others opt for cheaper alternatives available on Amazon or eBay. These windows are made of plastic or clear plastic and are designed to fit all Z3 models from 1996 to 2002. Installation can be done by the owner or a professional, and typically involves unzipping the old window and zipping in the new one, using double-sided tape for the seal.
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What You'll Learn
Use a towel to protect the window when folding the roof down
When folding the roof down on a BMW Z3, it is important to protect the window from scratches and creases. One way to do this is to use a towel or cloth. A towel can be placed between the folds of the window to prevent creases and scratches when the roof is lowered.
Some Z3 owners have recommended using a thin towel to avoid increasing the fold in the plastic window. Others have suggested using a soft towel and placing it in the window where it creases as the roof is folding. This will ensure that the plastic folds correctly and will also protect the window from scratches.
In addition to a towel, some people have also used foam. For example, one Z3 owner cut a foam swimming aid to the size of the back screen and found that it protected the window perfectly. Another owner used a piece of 35mm foam, cut in half, with a custom-made black velvet cloth cover. This combination folded easily for storage and also served as a pillow when camping.
Using a towel or cloth is a simple and cost-effective way to protect the window of your BMW Z3 when folding the roof down. Whether you choose a thin towel, a soft towel, or a combination of foam and cloth, these methods can help prevent scratches and creases and keep your Z3's window in good condition.
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Seal the window with contact cement or glue
To seal a plastic window on a BMW Z3, you can use contact cement or glue. However, it is important to note that BMW Z3 windows use a zipper slider system, so you may not need to use glue at all. Some replacement windows come with double-sided tape for the seal, so you don't have to deal with messy glue.
If you do choose to use contact cement or glue, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure the surface is clean and dry. Remove any old sealant or glue residue with a razor or a caulk removal tool. You can use a product like Flex Shot Clear to caulk the outline of the window. If you get any on unwanted areas, simply wipe it away with a paper towel. Let the caulk dry completely before continuing.
Once the surface is prepared, you can apply the contact cement or glue. Follow the instructions on the product you have chosen and apply it carefully to the window. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection. Allow the glue to dry or cure completely before reassembling the window.
Additionally, when working with contact cement or glue, it is important to work quickly as these adhesives can dry or cure fast. Ensure you have all your tools and materials ready before you begin. You may also need to clamp or hold the window in place while the adhesive sets to ensure a strong bond.
Overall, sealing a plastic window on a BMW Z3 with contact cement or glue can be a straightforward process if you take your time and follow the necessary steps.
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Use a zipper slider to zip in the new window
To install a plastic window on a BMW Z3, you will need to unzip the old window and remove it, before zipping in the new window. This is done using a zipper slider.
Zipper sliders can be purchased in any size. You can also add one or more sliders to a coil zipper by the meter. When two sliders are placed in opposite directions, they are mounted "head-to-head," allowing the zipper to open in both directions.
To use a zipper slider to zip in a new window for your BMW Z3, follow these steps:
- Prepare your zipper: Cut your zipper to the desired length, adding an extra 3 to 4 centimetres for margin. Ensure your cut is clean by using a pair of sharp scissors.
- Open one end of the spiral chain.
- Place the zipper tape face down, so that the zipper teeth face the table and you can only see the back of the zipper tape.
- Hold your two zipper tape "tails" at an angle, forming a "V".
- Slowly feed the "tails" into the two openings at the top of the zipper slider, at the same time.
- Gently pull and wiggle if needed, until they both come out at the bottom (straight) end of the zipper slider.
- Pull a bit more so that the zipper slider is at least an inch into the zipper tape.
- Remove any heavy object holding the zipper slider in place, if you used one.
- Slide the zipper head towards the middle of your zipper tape.
To ensure that your zipper slides smoothly, you can clean it with a bit of dish soap or vinegar, or lubricate it with soap, wax, a graphite pencil, or window cleaner.
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Sew the start and end of the zipper together
Sewing the start and end of a zipper together requires precision and patience. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to do it:
Prepare the Zipper and Fabric
Firstly, ensure you have the right zipper for your project. If you need to cut the zipper to a specific length, use a soldering iron to melt and seal the teeth at the cut end. If your zipper has a stopper, you can remove it with wire cutters and reattach it at the end. If your zipper doesn't have a stopper, you can create one by sewing a fabric stop at the end.
Pin the Zipper to the Fabric
Place the zipper face-down on the fabric, aligning the right edge with the fabric's edge. Use pins to secure the zipper to the fabric, placing them through the zipper and fabric every few inches. If you're working with a narrow seam allowance, adjust the zipper placement accordingly.
Sewing the Zipper
Attach your zipper foot to the sewing machine. Start sewing at the bottom of the zipper, backstitching a couple of times to secure the thread. Sew up one side of the zipper, maintaining a consistent distance from the teeth. When you reach the zipper pull, stop sewing, and slide the pull out of the way.
Securing the End
At the top of the zipper, sew a short seam just below the zipper's stop. Rotate the fabric so that the stitch runs from side to side. Continue making short stitches until you reach the other side of the zipper.
Finishing Touches
Turn the fabric and sew along the opposite side of the zipper, repeating the process. Finish by topstitching a line of thread about 1/4 to 1/2 inch away from each side of the zipper. This adds a neat finish and ensures the zipper is securely attached.
Remember, it's important to work slowly and carefully, especially when sewing around the zipper pull and metal or plastic pieces. Take your time and adjust the fabric as needed to ensure straight and secure stitching.
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Use double-sided tape for the seal
BMW Z3 windows use a zipper slider system, making the replacement a simple task. The old window is simply unzipped and removed, and the new replacement window is zipped in.
However, zipping in the new window can be a challenge. One person has reported taping the corners and using a bit more tape in those areas. Another user has suggested using tape to hold the zipper in place while starting it. A third user has suggested using masking tape on both sides of the plastic edging and using a popsicle stick to hold the edge open while working some adhesive in.
Some suppliers of the replacement windows recommend using double-sided tape for the seal. This is so that you don't have to mess around with glue.
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Frequently asked questions
BMW Z3 windows use a zipper slider system, so installing a new plastic window is a simple task. Simply unzip and remove the old window, then zip in the new replacement window.
You will need double-sided tape to seal the window, as well as a zipper slider.
Installation time varies. Some people report installing the window in about an hour and a half, while others say it took them a couple of hours.
You can buy plastic windows for the BMW Z3 from Amazon and eBay.
