'84 380SL hardtop Leaks thru Rear Window

[warmblood58]

Hello all, I was caught in a down pour and upon looking in my rear view mirror noticed many drops of water on the headliner near the upper edge of the rear window. Is this area a common leak area? Do I pull the outer trim strips and reseal with soft bedding compound? Thanks!

[dugald]

You sure it wasn't condensation?

[warmblood58]

Nope definitely water drops, I have noticed this when washing too -

[warmblood58]

Anyone? who is the hardtop expert on this site? Thanks!

[Earlybird]

I have been curious about how you take these tops apart so unsealed windows can be fixed. I have 3 tops that have internal rust at the back and water intrusion between the laminate glass. Last year I bought a top for a minimal cost and started to disassemble it. It fits together very precisely with very small screws under the windows lower edge and it just keeps coming apart until all the brite work is disassembled revealing the windows and their lack of sealant. I my case, all windows just lifted out. I hope this helps.

[warmblood58]

I wonder why MB did not seal these tops very well?

[Mistress]

because MB wanted the owners to fully understand the "Pain/Pleasure" principle.

[Tims450SL]

Surprise! I got your answer- Sounds funny- but it works...Go to True Value or Home Depot and buy clear waterproof caulk. It works, and it is invisible. Dries in one day. Good luck!