I will offer what I know about my 1992 SL.

The front latches are prone to leaking and can make quite a mess when they go. Parts are available on FastLane and not too hard to change out. Just e-mail Phil if you want to replace them yourself.

I'm puzzled about your saying that it starts leaking as soon as the key is turned. When my latch leaked it only leaked while I was operating the top. I don't think the pump should run unless the top is being operated.

Do you have any warning lights illuminated such as the top operation switch blinking? If so, you may need to manually operate the latches until they are all locked. Perhaps it senses that one is not locked?

At any rate, if the pump is running, it is located under the spare tire. I would expect there to be a connector on or near the pump that could be unplugged.

There ae several discussions about these latches that should pop up if you do a search.

Keep us posted!

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02 S500
92 500SL
92 400E (Sold)
87 300E (Sold)
83 300D Turbo (Sold)
75 300D (Sold)
74 240D (Sold after 20 years)