92 500SL Soft Top Problem

[Don Moranville]

I have had hard top installed for past 2 years. I removed hard top to repair broken rear window. After removal, tried to raise and secure soft top. The front closes and latches properly but, the rear window section will not close, acts as if cloth and plastic windows are too short/tight and rear latchs will not connect/close. The rear latches come to within 2-3 inches of making contact with latching mechanism. Soft top is about 3 years old and worked fine before closing in stored position for past 2 years. Any suggestions will be appreciatedt.

[ILUVMILS]

Originally Posted by Don Moranville

The front closes and latches properly but, the rear window section will not close, acts as if cloth and plastic windows are too short/tight and rear latchs will not connect/close.

Sounds familiar. Try having a helper carefully push down on the fabric bow beneath the rear window while you're holding the switch in the "CLOSE" position. If the top closes completely, let it stretch out awhile, then try opening and closing it a few times. Make sure the engine is running, though. You'll need maximum voltage at the hydraulic pump to pull it shut.

[Don Moranville]

Thank you ILUVMILS for responding.
I solved problem by applying heat with heat gun uniformly on clear plastic windows. Provided enough flexibility/stretch to be latched. Probably the same fix if left car in the sun on warm day or a heated garage.