E36 Convertible Levers/Cables for Tonneau Cover

[damax992]

I have a 98 M3 convertible and replaced the 2 levers (51-25-8-151-877 and 51-25-8-151-878) for the rear tonneau cover motor/linkage. The 51-25-8-151-878 lever (which is the one that has the 2 cables connected to it) is loose and has some play in it from side to side. Before I potentially damage something, I'd appreciate it if someone could confirm if this is normal of if the lever should be solidly seated.

Also, one of the cables that attaches to this lever is not taut and I wonder if that is normal or may cause a problem and needs to be adjusted. From pictures I've seen, they generally appear to both be taut.

Thanks in advance!

[damax992]

Also, the 51-25-8-151-878 lever seems to be properly seated

[damax992]

the lever has about 3/8" - 1/4" in side to side play where the cables are connected. The 51-25-8-151-877 lever (which is the one connected to the rod) seems to be fully inserted and tightened. Assuming there should not be any play, the only thing I can think of is to try to insert/tighten 51-25-8-151-877 further.

[gdavid]

51-25-8-151-878 should feel a bit loose, it can rotate until 51-25-8-151-877 limits it's motion at the stops (the two bent tabs. If you have significantly more slack in one of the two cables, I would suspect the cable that is taught has a kink or tangle at the lock on one side or the other. They are adjusted at the lock end of each lock a barrel adjuster similar to a bike's brake cable.

[damax992]

Thanks gdavid, will check the cable as recommended.