Replace Pillar Post Seal on 450SL - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

ArgeMan · #1 02-23-2006, 04:11 PM

I'm in the process of replacing the seal on the driver's side pillar post (MB calls this an A-frame post?). Does anyone have instructions on how to take this seal apart? I've looked it up on my handy dandy cd-rom but found no info.

Thanks so much.

'80 450 SL

Strife · #2 02-23-2006, 07:59 PM

There are semi-worthless instructions on the CD but not easy to find; the tricky part is lifting up the rubber lip that goes over the screws in order to remove/replace them (and then, not losing the screws). I used a plastic wedge to do this. Make sure that the new seal is seated properly before tightening the screws.

KCM · #3 02-24-2006, 12:52 PM

Are you talking about the seal that seals the door glass to the post? This rubber just pulls out of the C-shaped track and is carefully pushed/pried back into the track. There is a plastic push clip that pulls out of the pillar at the bottom end, and is the starting point when installing the seal. There is a seal behind the track, and another foam seal behind the L-shaped chrome cover between the track and the pillar. The track seal came attached to the rubber I installed, though it took me a while to realize I had to cut it off the main seal in order to install it. Be careful when tightening the track if you have it off. The screws can bend the track as the seal compresses. Don't ask me how I know.

The pain in the butt part is having to trim the excess at the top end to match to the soft and hard top seals.

Strife · #4 02-24-2006, 07:34 PM

I THINK that the pillar post seal is the one over the drip rails near the windshield - but I'm not sure. This is what I was discussing.

ArgeMan · #5 02-25-2006, 12:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strife

There are semi-worthless instructions on the CD but not easy to find; the tricky part is lifting up the rubber lip that goes over the screws in order to remove/replace them (and then, not losing the screws). I used a plastic wedge to do this. Make sure that the new seal is seated properly before tightening the screws.

Thanks for the feedback Strife. Is the rubber lip that goes over the screws at the top of the column where it meets with the soft/hard top? After I expose the screws, do I just pull off on the rubber and chrome piece?

maheath · #6 02-26-2006, 01:28 AM

I replaced my pillar post seals a couple of years ago. From what I remember, there are 4 or 5 screws. They are below the rubber that's next to the windshield molding.