Sealer for soft top replacement - '95 SL500?

[buffalochip]

Hi all - I've been watching the German video for the SL500 soft top replacement and saw where some "MB sealer" was used to join the two canvas parts together at the roofline. I called the dealership and explained, with photos, the sealer being used. They had the glue used for the rest of the project, but they didn't know what I was talking about - regarding the sealer and there was no part listed. Does anyone know what this stuff is and where to get it? I'm stumped!

[Big Al MA]

I don't know, but I have a questions, you are apparently doing the top replacement yourself, so how difficult is it really? I am of average mechanical inclination and do most repairs myself, but the top seems a bit intimidating. Any advice/input?

[buffalochip]

At this point, I have stripped off the old roof, cleaned off the adhesive and am awaiting new guide wires to arrive (two were broken - and I didn't know this until I began removing the roof). I've had my brother here in town to help strip off the adhesive, and get a second opinion as to video interpretation (I'm using the German video as a guide). However, the SL in the video and my car have a few differences, which concerns me. Nevertheless, I'm into it now, so I gotta finish it! I suggest having someone help you - if nothing more than moral support! Also, expect to spend some time on the project - mostly stripping adhesive. If I never see another bottle of "goof off", it'll be too soon!

[Big Al MA]

Yes, taking things apart is certainly easier than putting them back together, but I saw the video and it looks good.

You should take and post pictures of your adventure, if for no other reason than to help me! Really, to provide some insight to others that might tackle the job, and maybe so you can capture the fun in pictures.

[buffalochip]

I began gluing the top on last night. First stumbling block was the glue itself. In the "video", the glue appears to be VERY liquid, but the Mercedes glue I have looks like something from a bad sinus infection. It's very difficult to spread, which makes for "bumps" in areas that should be smooth. I may re-do some areas, because I'm not satisfied with the outcome. The other thing I noticed is on the "video", there are two, chrome bars in the dis-assembly/assembly. One that holds the two top pieces together, and one that hangs at the bottom of the liner, for the inside assembly. Evidently, a past owner decided to scrap the "outside" chrome bar and use the interior bar to do both jobs. Either that, or the '95 version is different from the car in the video - which by the wheels is clearly an earlier model. If anyone can confirm my chrome bar thought, I'd appreciate it.

[bobterry99]

Originally Posted by buffalochip

They had the glue used for the rest of the project, but they didn't know what I was talking about - regarding the sealer and there was no part listed. Does anyone know what this stuff is and where to get it?

My local dealer sells it. It comes on a roll (picture).

Perhaps your dealer should talk to "Ike" in the parts department of Atlanta Classic Cars in Duluth, Georgia.