I am in need of a new softtop, it is now cloudy and cuts where the back plastic windows fold. A person on eBay is selling many new softtop for different models of Mercedes for around $350 (mine is a 1992 300SL). Now, I was wondering if any one here has installed a softop?? Is so, how difficult is it and is it something a "normal" everyday person could do?? I've gone to the dealer to get a quote and it cost $3400. Aftermarket upholster shop charges $1700 (850 for the top,and 850 for the labor). Any special tools I need?? Any help appreciated, thanks in advance.

I bought my soft top from the same eBay source, 1boygenus (Phil) and installed it myself. It is a job that can be done by a reasonably capable person so long as you think through each step of the of the project before proceeding. The advantage of doing it yourself is that you can do all of the little detailed stuff that is usually ignored. Like oiling the bow pins and replacing them if they are warn. The top that Phil sells are high quality and fitting it onto the frame is straight forward. Installing the top, however, takes attention to every detail and a couple of good days of careful work.

If would do minie again if it ever needs a new top.

Also, take time to find the correct contact cement for a canvas convertable top (was not easy for me to find).




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Jim Villers
190SL, 230SL 5-speed

I just checked eBay. It is not the source that I used. Email Phil and see if he can get you a top. SDasaad@aol.com



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Jim Villers
190SL, 230SL 5-speed

MY 2 cents.

I have a 20 year Mercedes Tech that works for me. He has done a litteral thousand 107 tops.

The first and second 129 top kicked his a--.

It is a hard, involved job that pays a professional tech 22 hours.

Be sure that you are willing to invest alot.

There is special glue and sealing strips that you MUST purchase from the dealer...

Good luck

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1992 500E (very soon I hope :)
1981 280GE SWB
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Thanks guys. After reading your posts and many who have emailed me, I think I will take it to the pros and instead of putting hours into the top I'll work some overtime at work to make up the difference.