Hey Scott, just for clarification, some of the earler cars have the front latches permanently attached, later ones had removable ones. Not sure where the 250SL fits in this.
In any event, the two rear latches are turned inward and the front latches unlocked -- then you and a helper (preferably a linebacker) carefully lift the top up and off -- sacheting (if thats the word -- I have three daughters!) to the rear and away from the car. The tops are on the heavy side but its more the awkwardness that makes top removal scary. My wife and I have managed many times (she's 5-7 115) but strong as a ... well, I digress...
Soft top goes up like this:
Pop the case open and grab the frame, and come on up. As it starts to come out use your right hand to bring whole thing out. The front section will start to accordian forward.
With left hand lead that part toward the front windshield. The rear should come up folded tight and be at a 90 to the car.
Close and lock the soft-top case. You then push to spread the back section down.
Again depending on model, you attach the front latches and the rear center latch. 230s do back first then fronts. 280s do the fronts, then the back. With 250s? -- not sure. hope this helps.
James
63 230SL
