soft top replacement

[Michaelg]

I am doing work on my new inherited 1970 280 sl. Opened up the soft top compartment and the top is in total disrepair.
Who makes the soft top for the Pagoda?? And what should it cost me to replace??
cheers

[Kayvan]

GAHH in LA is a big supplier, as well as World and others on vendor list; there are a few Euro suppliers too

IMHO...its not a DIY job; even experienced SL mechanics have local convertible top places install them; special tools, tricks and missing straps/seals can sabotage a job ans then you have to cut it off frame.

I would check locally who does convertible tops; they get wholesale rate from Gahh and vendors....

ps, unless ur old top is in shreds; a good washing with cleaning supplies from Ragg Topp and polishing plastic window, and gluing in new rubber seals or straps can save a lot.

[Tyler S]

I replaced my top myself but as Keyvan mentioned it is not really a DIY job. Took me a full weekend but I am very satisfied how it turned out. A majority of the time was spent removing the old top, old glue, and cleaning and adjusting the frame. Be prepared to replace at the minimum the front and rear seals as well as the elastic and support straps, New screws for the rear pinch cleat, and possibly the window frame rubber moldings. I sourced my top from World Upholstery. They have everything you will need except new screws. A lot of patience and time is required. There is an overview of the procedure in the tech manual.
http://www.sl113.org/wiki/Tops/SoftTop#Replace

[66andBlue]

... Opened up the soft top compartment and the top is in total disrepair. ..

How bad is it? If it is only the fabric that needs to be replaced then you just need to find an experienced top installer in your vicinity.
If however the frame is damaged or bent then you have to spend the money and sent it off to Gernold at SL-Tech in Maine: http://www.sltechw113.com/
He has the jig to put it back in proper shape.
Many of us have bought the top from this vendor and member here: https://www.germanautotops.com/
They sell at "whole sale" to anyone.

[Tyler S]

Alfred, you sparked a memory. I take back what I said about getting my top from World Upholstery. It Was indeed German Auto Tops. My seats were from World Uph. Too many contact cement fumes I guess. 

[Kayvan]

See tips; the SL surfaces really respond to old fashioned soap & water and elbow grease....

Use this to wash top

http://www.rubbermaid.com/en-US/tampico-scrub-brush

http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=23216.msg166158#msg166158


My original Cognac Leather interior came back from the dead with Sadddle Soap..even little red dots.

[Michaelg]

I also own a 1979 911 sc. I can honestly say this is the best group of Mercedes  owners i have ever been associated with. The help all of you give is unpresidented.