CLK430 Convertible Hydraulic Leak
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Newbie
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 5
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2000 CLK430 Convertible
CLK430 Convertible Hydraulic Leak
I just filed the convertible hydraulic reservior and was putting the top up when fluid started leaking in the trunk. The hydraulic fluild was leaking from the top inside the trunk. Any advice on fixing the leak would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 51
Likes: 1
From: Phoenix
'99 CLK 320 Cabriolet
It's most likely the vacuum actuator. Here's a link to a slew of convertible top problems and how I solved the same problem in mine. GL
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...roblems-3.html
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...roblems-3.html
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 5
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2000 CLK430 Convertible
Thank you for the help. I've fixed the convertible problem by having to replace the Vacuum Cylinder located under the top of the trunk. EOM part# 1298001672 cost $180.00. This part is known to leak hydraulic fluid over time. You'll need to take the carpeting off the bottom of the top cover. If you can raise the top cover that makes it easier, if not you'll have to lie on your back in the trunk and do it. Pry out the center of all the fasteners and the carpet/insulation will come down. You'll see the Vacuum Cylinder and whole lock assembly there. If that whole mechanism is covered in hydraulic fluid then that's probably it. Take out 4 bolts and 2 hex nuts and unscrew the hydraulic shaft and its out, then attach the new one the same way.
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2011
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Very helpful...but I can't figure out how to unscrew the hydraulic shaft. I removed the hex screws and the bolts. But now...should I try to unscrew from the opposite end of the actuator? I'm just scared that I might break something because I put some force on it and it didn't budge. Some tips?
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
2000 CLK430 Convertible
The hydraulic shaft is screwed on very tight. I sprayed WD-40 then used two wrenches to unscrew the shaft; one to hold the rectangular block, the other on the shaft. This will take the pressure off the assembly. Good luck!
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 51
Likes: 1
From: Phoenix
'99 CLK 320 Cabriolet
Did you see the indent on the shaft for a wrench? should unscrew pretty easy from there.
Very helpful...but I can't figure out how to unscrew the hydraulic shaft. I removed the hex screws and the bolts. But now...should I try to unscrew from the opposite end of the actuator? I'm just scared that I might break something because I put some force on it and it didn't budge. Some tips?
