Soft Top Help.........Please!!!!! - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Flyer · #1 06-25-2006, 12:55 PM

I have a '96 SL500 that I've owned for a couple of years. This past week it developed a bad habit and I need some help. When I put the soft top down it appears to drop into the vault a lot quicker than it used to.....but putting it up is the real problem. As it nears the top of the windshield it drops with authority into the correct position, but drops really hard.

It has never done this before the past week. The car is always garaged and I don't even take it out if there is a threat of rain. Pardon my ignorance but could it be something as simple as being low on hydraulic fluid.....and if so, where are the cylinders and what do I use to top them off?

LeaUK · #2 06-25-2006, 01:15 PM

Use original MB fluid - it's not expensive at around 8GBP per litre.

The tank is beneath your spare wheel, it will have a level mark making for reasonably easy checking.

Lea

Flyer · #3 06-30-2006, 01:06 PM

I removed the spare tire and the protective covering and located the tank with the hydraulic fluid. The fluid appeard to be between the two lines, therefore I added MB hydraulic fluid to bring it up to the top line. I have only moved the top a couple of times, however, it still does the same thing. Also, I have NO leaks anywhere and it actually appears to be working correctly, it just drops at the last moment. Still looking for answers.......

Mike Miller · #4 07-01-2006, 12:40 PM

My top has a tendency to drop the last couple inches. I have written it off as wear in the entire mechanical portion of the system. Remember, the hydraulic pistons are way back in the top compartment. As it pushes the entire assembly up, each joint unfolds and stretches out the top to full extension. When the top goes "over center" on its way up, there is now a lot of weight and leverage on the rear attachment points and other supporting frame pieces, but none on the front.

While sitting in the drivers seat, I simply reach up and grab the top at the forward drivers window area BEFORE it gets to the drop point and guide it into the locks. That helps it seat immediately on the windshield and stops me from worrying about the drop.

Maybe I am avoiding or covering up something, but I think I am pretty close. My top works perfectly every time and a little slop goes with her 14 years of age.