69 280sl

[Fiams]

The detachable hardtop latches and latches at the rear for the hard top are missing.
 Is there anyway I can get the hardtop off without these latches?  The hardtop is currently secured on the car.

 Any assistance or guidance will be appreciated.

 Thanks Ben

[Douglas]

The front latches could come undone with a screwdriver inserted in the holes at each post.

The rear latches are trickier. (I'm guessing they snapped off?) Perhaps a pair of pliers could turn what's left of the pot metal fixed handles on either side. Depends on how much there is to grab onto.

(How on earth did someone mangle both of the rear handles?)

[Fiams]

Thanks for the advice, the pot metal snapped off leaving little to be grabbed by pliers or anything.

[Mike Hughes]

Can you post some of photos of each of your snapped-off latches?  We need to collectively figure out how to help you get them undone.  Replacements can probably be found, but you've got to get the hardtop off the car first to do the replacement!

[johnd]

I've never done this, but I wonder if you could remove the inner panel (vinyl covered) at least on the right (left would be tricky with the lever to release the lid) enough to tap the roll pin out that holds the handle on.  Can't remember how it looks right now . . . .

[Fiams]

i will take some pix tomorrow when I get to the garage and I am still having problems getting it off. Thanks