560sl hardtop ?stuck?

[JohnC]

The rear latch on my wife's 560sl hardtop doesn't seem to want to let go. We've tried variations on setting and releasing the locking levers, etc. When the locking lever is set to the locked position it is still pulling the rear pin down. Any tricks to getting it loose? I am guessing there is a jammed or sticky part in the catch but I don't know, having never looked at it. I really don't want to pull the seat, if that is what is required.

Thanks all.

[ericdee]

Try this link:

84 SL Hard Top Stuck - rear bullet. Please help

[maheath]

That's the same general way that I released mine, but I just used a long regular screwdriver. Down the passenger side of the center pin. Took 3 people, two to hold the top and one to slide in behind the front seats to use the screwdriver.

When you get it out, there's a plastic connector near the driver's side convertible hinge, but in the bottom of the hatch, that you need to tighten. I've forgotten whether it turns clockwise or counter-clockwise, but you should be able to figure it out. Of course, it's possible that the entire cable needs to be replaced.

[JohnC]

Thanks for your assistance with this. Funny, I tried that search but it didn't work as well as your link.

Happily, we got the roof off without these procedures. However, I now know to tighten the cable before putting the roof back on.

[The Black Guy]

John,

I had the same problem with my SL. That plastic nut always slips. What I did, after adjusting was wrap electrical tape behind the nut to hold it in place and secured the tape with a zip pull.

So far, it has lasted.

Good luck.

[jaybirdw]

What is a "Zip Pull" ?

[ericdee]

I think he's referring to a zip tie.