Soft Top

[Red SL]

I had a small problem opening the hard top. It was repaired by replacing one window switch. I raised the soft top and notice the soft top have a split in the right corner plastic window. The forward soft top cover looks good. What is your opinion? Do you change the whole top or do you change the half? Where can you buy the whole top or the half top for a 300sl 91.

[tecqboy]

You need to do a search on this forum. There is quite a bit of info on the subject including links to videos which show how it's done. The general consensious is that the entire top ( both pieces ) should be replaced at the same time. Depending on the material quality and instalation charges, price can be from $500 to $2000. I'm living with a small crack in my side window, as the fabric is still in very good condition. Best approach is to go to a well regarded independent top shop for their opinion.

[lc47@comcast.ne]

You may want to look at just having the plastic windows replaced if the top is in good shape and you are not looking to spend big $$$'s. Back half of top is removed and new windows are sewn in, not a DIY project unless you are very skilled in this. Also, consider tinted plastic in lieu of clear, my only regret from doing this recently.

I had mine done in Dallas at a local small shop a few months ago for around $360, looks great!

Larry

[Mike Miller]

I am in complete agreement with Larry. If your top material is good, replace the windows only. I had mine done by a guy in Long Beach, CA, for about the same price. You can just remove the back section. Then bring it to any good auto or boat canvas guy to replace the clear plastic.

You need to get to the screws that hold the top of the rear section and back of the front to the top frame. To do this, remove the interior plastic trim piece on the front of the top. The head liner can then be pulled down (it has it's own plastic bows that just snap on to the top frame bows). Once it is pealed back you will see where it all attaches to the top frame with a series of screws. Of course, there are the side and back-bottom attachments to remove as well, but that is about it. My top guy was not familiar with my '92 500SL top nor was I! We removed the entire top, which was much more work and un-necessary. My hindsight has now improved.

A little time, but a good cheap fix and it looks good as new!

[Red SL]

I examined my soft top and realized it's made in two pieces. Both pieces look extremely well. Therefore, I am attempting to find a repair shop to repair the plastic window. I have received some good leads, from this web site, regrading soft tops purchasing. I could use a good repair shop in the ATL area.

[moneyguyforu]

[QUOTE=Mike Miller;1141948]I am in complete agreement with Larry. If your top material is good, replace the windows only. I had mine done by a guy in Long Beach, CA, for about the same price. You can just remove the back section. Then bring it to any good auto or boat canvas guy to replace the clear plastic.

You need to get to the screws that hold the top of the rear section and back of the front to the top frame. To do this, remove the interior plastic trim piece on the front of the top. The head liner can then be pulled down (it has it's own plastic bows that just snap on to the top frame bows). Once it is pealed back you will see where it all attaches to the top frame with a series of screws. Of course, there are the side and back-bottom attachments to remove as well, but that is about it. My top guy was not familiar with my '92 500SL top nor was I! We removed the entire top, which was much more work and un-necessary. My hindsight has now improved.

A little time, but a good cheap fix and it looks good as new![/QUOT

I am from Canada, anyone familar with any places near even Toronto that can do just windows. Finally someone that has actually done just the windows. Thanks guys for posting this.

[Gilly]

Can ask an area dealer who they recommend for trim/top work. They normally don't want to do it themselves (kind of a skilled trade, like glass/windshield replacement or body work), so they probably have someone they recommend that they use.

Gilly

[peter serbanica]

I do top,leather replacement in New Jersey.

[moneyguyforu]

peter, happen to know anyone in canada ?

I was told apple auto glass, and will try them again, first call they quotedme like $2600 to do whole top, not just windows. A buddy suggested a boat repair shop.

[Red SL]

I have a 2000 SL now, the plastic window is not bad, but I like that new look, this time I am only changing the plastic windows. I received a quote of $500.00.