retractable top slk 230 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

jmsbenz · #1 10-13-2008, 06:39 PM

The retractable top quit operation while opening, trunk is stuck in the open position and an oil leak is apparent at latch mechanism. Where is oil resevior and what is repair procedure?

mbdoc · #2 10-14-2008, 08:31 AM

Reservoir is mounted to the pump & the pump is in the trunk on the RIGHT side.

MB hydraulic fluid is required 000-989-91-03-10

cphilip · #3 10-14-2008, 12:29 PM

Yes... its on the right side of the trunk. Behind a little plastic door. You will see the reservoir and it probably will be empty. You will probably find that if it is empty, a refill will return it to operating. But...if the Hydraulic rams are leaking its time to replace them. The right one seems to go first but the left one will follow. They cannot be easily rebuilt as everything is press fitted into them. They have to be replaced. It is not too expensive really at about $300 each. I would do them both. I did my right one and it wasn't but a year later that the left one started leaking. However, that said, if the leak is very slight you can just refill every so often. I mean if its not needing refill but every 6 months or so I would leave it alone and just keep a good regular check on the level. If it is, like mine, going down in a two week period then I would go ahead and replace them and be done with it.

Kestas · #4 10-14-2008, 01:40 PM

If you DIY, the cylinders can be rebuilt for a lot less. Search "Dennis Ficken" for more information on rebuilds. 3 of 8 cylinders leaked on my E320. I had all 8 rebuilt by Dennis.

cphilip · #5 10-14-2008, 03:18 PM

Can they? didn't look it to me. This thing has two main rears ones... and all the line fittings, even the end piece behind the main rod where the seal would go was pressed in there. I couldn't imagine them coming out and going back in properly. Was told they could to be rebuilt. They are Aluminum. But... if they can then I will retrieve my recently replaced one. This one of mine is a 99 model.

Kestas · #6 10-14-2008, 04:53 PM

I can't say with certainty. You'll have to check with an SLK owner who does his own work. Though I did skim through the R170 forum at another site and it seems doable for the DIYer.