hard top removal
 

i cannot get the hard top on my 83 380sl to release at the back center post...any helpis apreciated.
ben

Lift the top up where it's caught, turn it, right or left till you clear the hook on the center post. Or you can stick a pick onto the hook were it meets the post, it will be on the passager side of the post. :)

RE: Hard Top removal
 

I highly recommend using a long thin screwdriver or wire coat hanger to push the latch open. It is on the passenger side of the center post. Twisting will also work, but it is highly likely you will scratch the paint. Once off you need to adjust the latching mechinism. This ususally requires removing the large handle (slide the pad on the shaft away from the knob) and adjusting it a notch or 2 toward the back of the car. Ensure the small lever that actuates the center latch is adjusted correctly, you may need to adjust to position of the cable casing at the lever end to allow the level to actuate the latch. Then adjust the large handle so that when it is in it's full forward position it is married with the small lever in the latched (up) position. Easy job, should take about 15 minutes unless parts need to be replaced.