'97 Top Control Box
 

Bad news from the MB dealer service guy today..
Says that my top control unit is bad and that there is a Hydraulic problem. Bottom line: $4700 plus labor. I did a search on here to find a used or rebuilt box but no luck. Can someone recommend a source for good used / rebuilt or anything less than $4700. I appreciate any help/advice.
Thanks, Mike

I would start calling salvage yards that specialize in European cars. I would bet that you will find one for under $1000, but it might take up to a month to find it. There should be some good yards in your area, in my area I always call Aurora Salvage in Seattle. I found a top pump for my '91 on ebay for $350. It can take a few months for the right part to come up on ebay, if you can wait that long ebay is a good option too. Good luck brother, and don't get discouraged by the dealers estimate.

Soft top control module
 

Well now that I found one for $900 I wonder if it is a job I can tackle myself...Does anyone know a good reference guide for installation of ecu modules / electronics? Thanks... Mike

The one you found is for a '96 or later, right? Earlier modules won't work.

You don't need a reference guide to install the module. The procedure is simple and intuitive. The module is located under the false bottom of the storage area behind the passenger seat.

Part number 129-820-3926
 

Thanks BobTerry... yes the one I found is part number 129-820-3926 for 1995 - 2000 SL's. I will tackle it as soon as I get the part but will most likely have some more questions.

Re: Part number 129-820-3926
 

Hey mikeybob. How many miles are on your car for this problem to develop? Is this failure based upon frequent opening/closing of the soft top or electrical/hardwire failure?

Hey Boudreaux,
The car has 61,000 miles but since just got it last Monday I'm not sure why all the top and roll bar stuff is such a mess.. Guess it's why I got such a good deal on the car. I noticed last night that there is hydraulic fluid in the trunk (under the spare) but cannot find where on the pump it is leaking from. I guess "back to the dealer!".. $$$$

NO, NO, NO!! Don't take it to the "stealer"! Unless you have deep pockets (all the way to your kneecaps) you will regret it. The Greenway MB is always packed and filled with a lot of upset people. Take it to TGA (Texas German Auto on Edloe) or to PS Foreign Car Care. They both do very good work.

Other than that, don't feel so bad about your car. I've already spent $6000 on "Dieter" and I'm still not finished. Remember that MB's aren't bought for their great gas mileage (ha) nor for their cheap repairs (HA HA HA HA).