Re-engage Electrical Convertable Top After Manual Closing

[ZANE BOUREGY]

This is a 1994 325iC. With the top down, the semi-automatic power top switch failed to raise the top. No motor noise. I manually raised and locked the top following the instructions in the owner's book. The procedure was, in summary, to pull out a lever under the driver side rear seat to disingage the power mechanism from the top. Then, you physically raise up the top, close the cover and lock the top home. The book states in bold type that you must not lower the top again because the top cover will not lock in place and must be "reset" by a dealer. There are three operative fuses; all checked out ok with an ohm meter. I have a couple of questions if anyone can help. It is presently with the top up and the disengaged from power with the power release lever out.

1. Is anyone aware of a manual or treatise describing the procedure used by BMW to "re-engage" the power? Or can any of you explain how that is done?
I have access only to the Haynes, and it is useless, simply repeating that you must take it to a dealer for this.

2. Diagnostics: I tried the switch to lower the top again (after physically pushing it up about 12"). It was dead and I heard no motor sound. Then I blipped the switch to "top-up" position and heard a motor sound. (I'm guessing that they have a cut-out switch to prevent you from lowering the top after you disconnect it from power aparatus to manually get it up.) So then, what might have caused the failure of the semi-automatic powered top to raise the top? One would first think of motor failure, but I heard the motor when the switch was actuated in the opposite direction. I suppose there could be a defect in the switch but if I knew the answer, I wouldn't be writing this.

I'm in New Jersey and it's getting into awfully nice top down weather. I'd sure like to avoid the dealership bandits if possible.

I'll be grateful for any help you all may have to offer.

ZIP