Soft Top Frame Spings - Reinstalling?

[dtuttle123]

I'm missing the two springs on the side frame of my soft top.  I've scanned the forum, and noted that others don't have the springs also.  These springs help in raising the top, and its probably makes sense that I reinstall them.  Question for the group: Is there a reason why they may have been taken out?  Is there any trick as to how to install them, such as the frame have to be in a certain position to have the minimum pressure to engage the spring?

Thanks, Doug
1967 250SL 4-Speed
Orient Red

[bpossel]

Hi Doug,

Last winter I removed my soft top, hung it up in the open and stretched position, and installed my hard top.  This kept the soft top from being stuffed into the compartment during the winter months.

Anyway, to remove the soft top, I removed my springs.  I found the easist way to remove and install the springs is with a helper.  First, I open and fold up the rear of the top.  I also open and fold up the front of the top.  The helper then (with both rear and front folded up) holds the top up and then slightly tilts the entire structure towards the rear (about the 1 o'clock) position.  This seems to releave the spring tension enough for me to use pliers and pull the spring loose from the rear, lower mount pin.

Others may have different tricks, but this has worked good for me.

Regards,
Bob

bpossel  (Memphis, TN.)
'71 280SL  /  '97 E320

[al_lieffring]

quote:Originally posted by dtuttle123

Question for the group: Is there a reason why they may have been taken out?

Doug

I have seen several SLs where the arm that the spring attaches to on the top frame has been broken off and the other spring was removed to make the top fold without jamming. Look and make sure they are still there on both sides.
Al

66 230sl
113-042-10-014715
904/396 blue, Ivory Tex
condition: not-as-rusty-as-before-bucket

[hauser]

Most likely the anchoring points for the springs are broken.  Prior to my Gernold soft top restoration I had one side that was broken.

1969 280sl 5 spd
Gainesville, Fl.

[dtuttle123]

Mystery Solved!!  Based on your messages, I got in there last night with a flashlight, and sure enough, both anchoring points for the springs were broken off (on the soft top frame side, not the base of the compartment).  Looks like something to add to my longer term repair list.  Now, how would I describe the replacement part so that I sound like I know what I'm talking about?

Thanks, Doug