'91 300SL soft top frame partially disassembled

[BigBen1967]

Hi all,

New member here. Can't tell you how much of a resource this site is, having wandered around a bit before actually registering.

Anyway, I've owned a bunch of E class MB's, and still have one of them. I have never owned an SL before, but I picked up a '91 300SL last week for $4100.

It has 81K on it and the engine and trans are in good shape. I had to replace several switches (mirror and head lamps) and also need a hazard relay. Ouch, that one is pricey.

Not the biggest of my problems, though. I have no idea what kind of neanderthal mechanic worked on this Benz before, but the soft top is missing several parts on the left hand side. The roll bar is stuck in the up postition. Have read about the 30 second reset on that and I'll give it a go when I get home. The least of my worries at present.

Does anyone know where to get parts for these tops? The canvas isn't bad, but it is missing some structual elements and I think I am going to pull the whole unit out and have a look at it. It's looks to me like a deliciously overcomplicated Benz mechanism. Can't wait to get started.

If anyone has attempted this before, please post your horror stories here. This looks like a nightmare to me.

Thanks for your help and thanks for having me here!

Ben

[tecqboy]

You need to search around ( e-bay or other members here ) for the MB service CD which has the videos of the step by step process of removing and installing a new soft top. The videos show how to dis-assemble the rear compartments and access the hydraulic mechanisms. The system is complex, but logical, and parts are available from Fast-lane ( forum buy parts ). I have a 91 300Sl and have not experienced mechanical problems, but electrical gremlins which require reseting the controller happen every couple of years.