Soft Top Pull Wires Screws and Washers Visibility

[Pawel66]

I wanted to ask: the pull wires screws in the soft top front cross member - should they be "outside", meaning - visible on the outside of the soft top? Or hidden under soft top fabric? Did it change across the years/models?

I see pictures of cars with those screws being on the outside of the soft top (visible), but I also see cars without them being visible. I cannot figure out any regularity there.

On the picture of the "Holy Grail" from Motoring Investments I see them visible (attached). It is a late 280SL, as mine, it suggests these screws should be there visible (I do not think there would be US/Euro difference).

[cfm65@me.com]

Hi Pawel,
Yes, I am quite sure they are on the outside,visable.
Chris

[Pawel66]

Thank you!

Across years and models, I guess?

[Pawel66]

Which type of washer (Picture 1 or Picture 2) should I use for the cable hook in the front of the soft top, would you kindly advise?

SLS are suggesting one from Picture 2, but I prefer to ask experts.

[BobH]

https://parts.theslshop.com/mercedes-benz-soft-top-tension-cables-countersunk-washer-900056004002/

Hello Pawel, the SL shop say that their ones are NOS.  Just checked mine and they are the washers in your picture number 2

[Pawel66]

Thank you! Picture 2 type then it is!

Wonder how to seal them...

[cfm65@me.com]

Pawell,
I don’t think you have to be concerned to seal them. The soft top is sort of rubberised and once you have screwed the corners down, the rubberising in the soft top will seal the holes.
A previous question, you asked about other models. If I remember correctly, the 107 also had these screws on the corners but I can’t remember the 129 having them.
Regards
Chris

[Pawel66]

Chris, thank you!

Yes, there is a washer on top of the hook, then goes fabric, then the chromed washer so the fabric should be squeezed between two washers. I will probably put a drop of some sealant there anyway.

On the visibility of the screws - I was after confirming the W113 years - but I guess these screws have always been there.

I do not like them. I was hoping to avoid them... Still have not decided....