Well, it turns out that not much was wrong with the top, just scared me a bit. The car was sent to the local MB dealer and checked out, lubricated latches, and cycled top and complete check and all normal according to the invoice. Sounds like there was air in the system just as noted in the previous posts here. I tried the top numerous times and it functioned flawlessly. Needless to say I couldn't resist and bought the car and I am not sorry one bit, It was always a dream car of mine and now I have one for real. Thanks for all the informative responses here.