Top latch adjustment - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

jetjock · #1 08-09-2004, 05:17 PM

I have a 91 500SL that has difficulty in locking the soft top and hard top at the windshield. The soft top works normally until it's supposed to latch at the front, then I have to use the manual tool to lock the latches. It will then complete the process and the rear cloth holding brace will lock normally. I've tried pulling on the front of the top, but it doesn't seem to be enough. Anyone know how, or if, I can adjust the front latches? Maybe it just needs lubrication? How can I lube the latches without taking everything apart?
Thanks! I really enjoy reading this forum - you're awesome!

bobterry99 · #2 08-12-2004, 06:30 AM

You may need new hydraulic cylinders for the front locks. They are about $125 each from Phil at Part Shop. It takes about an hour to replace both. See this thread.

Gilly · #3 08-12-2004, 07:29 AM

I agree on the cylinders, either that or the top seals (front bow seals in particular) were replaced and mismatched, there are early and late style seals.
The adjustment, just so you know, is accomplished with shims on the upper "catch", the part on the folding top, not on the lower header.
They can also be moved any position laterally too, but up and down is done with the shims on the upper part. The hydraulic part on the header is not adjustable at all.
Gilly

jetjock · #4 08-13-2004, 11:51 PM

Thanks for the information. I'll look into both recommendations.

Gilly · #5 08-14-2004, 04:19 AM

If you can remove the trim panel on top of the header, then try latching the soft top, hold the button about an extra 10-15 seconds, then lower the top (get top bow out of the way) and feel the cylinders and see if they feel very warm or hot, that means they are leaking internally and are bad.
Gilly

jetjock · #6 08-23-2004, 11:05 PM

I finally got around to changing the hydraulic cylinder for the left top lock, since that's the one that has to be locked manually. Unfortunately, the symtoms are the same. The left front lock won't work automatically. I still have to lock the left side with the tool, then the rest of the top completes it's sequence. Opening is normal. Strange situation - when I held the switch for 15 sec. then felt the cylingers to see if they were warm; the right cylinder was warm (the one that works normally), but the left was cold.
Any other suggestions would be appreciated.

Gilly · #7 08-24-2004, 05:05 AM

You've got to test them before replacing anything. In your case, the left one can make the right one not latch, they're on the same hydraulic circuit. Also in your case, the right one can make the left one not latch, possibly the left one is just a little tighter than the right, but I wouldn't hesitate to replace the "hot one" in a case like this.
Gilly