soft top storage panel stuck

[lakeside]

I havean '87 560 SL, which has the storage panel for the soft top stuck. I just removed the hard top, got the soft top up, then started to lower it, and cannot get the lid (panel) to the storage compartment loose on the driver's side. It won't budge. How do I free it?

[GSMITH]

If the latch will not release by pushing the handle to the rear of the car.

Check this post for the how to when the soft top is down.
Broken Top release 77/ 450SL

And this post for pictures
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/car-audio-multimedia/185650-87-560-sl-trunk-passenger-compartment-wiring.html#post1493460

With the soft top up you will not be able to get the tool in place to release the latch. You will need to use a coat hanger from the trunk to grab the latch in the 2nd picture. If the clip identified on that picture comes loose the handle will only release the passenger side latch.

Added the line below to help the Search engine
107 soft top cover latch release

[Tom McMenamin]

I had the same problem. the solution provided works really well. After I got the thing open, I tied a string on the release and tucked it behind the carpet in the trunk of the car in case I'm on the road and don't have a coat hangar!