Convertible Top Hydraulic Leak

[tec01]

I have a problem that has me baffled and I could use some advise. My 1990 500SL developed a major hydraulic leak in the truck when I attempted to put the soft top up. I removed the interior of the trunk and found a large leak at the connection where the hydraulic line attaches to the cylinder that flips up the deck cover that covers the soft top. The clip that secures the line in the cylinder was bent up and the line was bent so I ordered in a new hydraulic line and clip although I really couldn't see the problem. I installed the new parts and you guessed it, the connection still leaks. Is it possible that the front latches for this flip cover are not unlatching and the hydraulic cylinder and line are over pressurung and causing the leak? The cover raises about two inches and then stops and then the leak starts. Any thoughts on what might cause this and any suggestions on what my next step should be. The cylinder looks OK so I don't think that is the problem. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

TEC01

[dstorey]

There are a whole bunch of threads concerning the top hydraulic system.

[bobterry99]

Originally Posted by tec01

The cylinder looks OK so I don't think that is the problem.

When fluid leaks from where a metal line inserts into a hole sealed by rubber it is intuitive to me that the rubber has a failure -- not the metal. In your case you have already replaced the line, therefore the cylinder has got to be the problem. I have seen this failure before, and it generally can not be discerned by just looking at it.

My advice is to purchase a used cylinder. I have one to sell you, but it will cost an additional $50 to first send it to Dennis Ficken to be resealed. You can also find cylinders on eBay.

If you want my cylinder, then PM or email me with a fair offer. I will surely accept it.