Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => Body, interior, paint, chrome, and cosmetic items => Topic started by: mgpcpa on May 01, 2016, 18:01:32

Title: Front Hardtop Attachment
Post by: mgpcpa on May 01, 2016, 18:01:32

After installing the hardtop in my 1971 280SL this past fall, I noticed that the latch on the right side of the windshield does not stay tight for long. This results in some rattling of the top while driving. When re-tightening with the locking handle, it quickly becomes loose again. Are there bushings of some sort inside the front attachment posts on the hardtop that may have weakened, thus causing this problem? If so, are they available and will they cure this problem?       Please advise, and thanks from suburban Philadelphia!                                   

Title: Re: Front Hardtop Attachment
Post by: 66andBlue on May 01, 2016, 18:08:09

Welcome to the group - where you always will find an answer!  ;) ;D

You could add more shims:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=17760.msg123375#msg123375

AuthenticClassics sells the shims:
http://www.authenticclassics.com/1-5mm-Top-Latch-Shim-230SL-250SL-280SL-107-111-p/auth-007053.htm

Title: Re: Front Hardtop Attachment
Post by: Tyler S on May 01, 2016, 20:58:58

There are detent springs, balls, and set screws in the latch assy's that can be tightened up to prevent the latch from "walking". At least on the one piece design with permanent handles.

Title: Re: Front Hardtop Attachment
Post by: mgpcpa on May 02, 2016, 16:49:12

Thanks very much for the prompt answer!