230sl hardtop

[reg]

Having a problem with my hardtop rattling.   Have read that all w113 tops are the same but also have heard that an early one is a little different from say a 280sl.   I have a 1966 230sl but have acquired a top from a later model and  was wondering if it is true that there is a different chrome mount on the B pillar, and if so what options would I have.

[Tyler S]

Dont know if there are any differences between the two but I had a very loud rattle. Especially over rough roads. Tried shimming the top to see if i could get it to stop. Didn't help
Turns out the rear window seal had become hard and the gap for the glass had shrunk. The rear window was rattling in its setting. Just something to check. Press gently on the glass from the inside and check for movement.

[Pawel66]

I looked at the EPC quickly, because I know how irritating this could be...

As for the Hard top components, there are part number changes for handles at the B-pillar mount as well as the window frame fastemers, but without indication as of which chassis, which usually means that these changes should not create any fitting issues.

There was a change indeed in chrome B-pillar top moulding as of chassis 042 015567, with the new chrome also installed on 15546, 15551, 15555, 15556, 15558, 15561, 15563 and 15565.

But I have no idea if it can be the cause of rattling as I do not know the nature of the change. What i would expect is that if the change was important for holding the top, the top elements would also change "as of...". But I cannot be sure about that.

SLS have these moulds "as of March 66". Probably the same change. They do not show different handles.

When I had issues with rattling of the soft top, I asked my daughter, while I was driving, to hold/press on various parts of the top to see what was rattling. We found the reason this way. If you have someone, e.g. press on glass while driving, you will figure out if it is this part.

[Jordan]

Check to make sure the B pillar screws are tight.  There are 2 small phillips head screws and two larger slotted screws.  Then check the hard top latches to make sure they aren't wobbling around.  I believe there is a rubber washer and if it is dried out or missing it will leave the latch loose, which could cause the rattling.

[Pawel66]

All the parts I marked are rubber/plasic parts. Quite many of them.

[reg]

Thanks all for the input ,   will do some more poking around and see what I come up with.   The top comes off soon for the summer so it will be easier to see .   I will keep you posted.    I was concerned  that I had missed something obvious .  Thnks reg

[waltklatt]

Reg,
Use some black soft rubber pipe insulation.  Cut into small 1" wide strips and put one between the hardtop and car body/windshield as you go around to eliminate the rattle.
Put one on both sides where the hardtop latches to b post pillar.
If still rattle, but one at each of the latches on top the windshield.

Still rattling?
Put on between hardtop and soft top case cover in rear.

Let us know the results.
Walter