Hardtop installation on 450SL

I finally caved to my wife's requests for a hardtop (our '72 SL came without one), so now I need to know how to install it.

I bought a pair of the top "handles" on eBay - are they used to latch and unlatch the sides of the hardtop as well as the front (above the windshield)?

And are the rear window wire connectors the same across all years? The hardtop I bought is allegedly from a '78.

All basic instructions and lessons learned will be appreciated.

[RickM]

Doc,
As I recall the Hardtop goes on essentially like the soft top.
One rear (center) and two front (top windshield) "latches". Do you have the owners manual? If not I'll scan the instructions for my 380 and send to you.

[abe g]

As you mentioned, the handles are used for a) front 2 locks on top of windsheild, b) 2 side locks left and right behind seat backs, c) 3 prong (on mine) plug from heated window to snap cover on passenger side (near side lock). d) center main lock at rear window. Adjust top (2 men) to fit openings, lock with handle first windschield, then sides, then rear by rotating handle on drivers side (behind seat), Be sure to note that rear stud on top is pulled down to lock when rotsating handle. It all should be in drivers manual, suggest you get one. Good luck. Abe G

I have a reproduction of the '72 owner's manual - it covers both tops on one page with cryptic text and two small drawings.

Also, to avoid the "cant' get it off" problem I've read about, which lubricant type is best for the cable mechanism - a thin one such as WD-40, or one that sets up thick like Krown T-40?

[DanielG]

Good instructions can be found at this web site:


http://www.zianet.com/SLlover/page62d.html

[afmcorp]

thanks dan for the website address. i'm getting ready to take mine off for the first time.
tks
craig

MUCH better! Thanks for the link.

[DanielG]

My pleasure gentlemen -- but all the credit goes to the good people who have filled the Internet with great information on their hobbies!

I will attempt to take mine off this weekend - I tried for the first time last weekend and ran up against a non-cooperative rear pin. Car is at the shop (also for a rumbling noise) where they have told me that this is typical and that they have made the necessary adjustments. I also asked them to replace the plastic grommets that the top's front pins enter on the windshield frame.

Now, if the weather will cooperate!

[RickM]

My rear pin was a pain as well.....and I need one of those plastic guides as well.

Just as an FYI - WD-40 is not really a lubricant but a water displacer. I'd consider using something else.

[maheath]

The only thing I would add to that website's instructions are when lowering the top onto the vehicle, put the center pin, on the rear of the hardtop, in first, then align the hardtop with the windshield header.

The most common damage occurs from the center pin bouncing on the car. Take care of it first.

[DanielG]

While that seems reasonable, and is the way that most people probably do it, the instructions call for all of the pins to be aligned simultaneously. In this manner, I would guess, you have less of a chance to bend the rear pin as the others are aligned. Such an operation probably requires the use of a top hoist. If you can't get them all in at once, then the best course of action is to insert the rear pin first and align the others.

Its a guess, but I bet some of the problems (e.g. the rear pin not releasing -- that many of us have experienced) of removing the hardtop has to do with that rear pin getting bent (even slightly) during removal and replacement of the top.

[cbdo]

I've had the rear pin stick--but I've learned to make absolutely sure the top isn't being pulled out of alignment, and that seems to do it. If you want to get the top on or off solo, or plan to use it much, a hoist is somewhere between incredibly helpful and indispensable; my own is a self-built collection of West Marine-sourced sailing tackle and works fine. Off or on in about five minutes solo.

Craig

[StylinMotors]

I am having a problem taking the soft top down. I can not get the trunk cover open. The driver side release but not the passenger side.

[abiby]

Originally Posted by StylinMotors

I am having a problem taking the soft top down. I can not get the trunk cover open. The driver side release but not the passenger side.

Try having someone push down firmly on the passenger side while you operate the lever.

No guarantees, but it might open this way. If it does, take the opportunity to lube the latches on both sides.

[Strife]

If that doesn't work, it is possible to work a clothes hanger wire "hook" through the RH upper side of the trunk, catch the cable, and pull it back. I have one permanently installed on both cars