Advice needed for 2 cosmetic problems with Convertible top
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
From: Sarasota, Fl
2002 CLK430 Convertible
Advice needed for 2 cosmetic problems with Convertible top
Posted photos.
Outside is pealing apart and it's getting worse. When I bought the car last year, I assume they glued it, it looked fine. Then right after there was a small part of that was visible and it has grown.
Today, I just noticed the plastic trim around the inside window is broke on both sides. I posted a picture, it's the same on both sides.
I am more worried about the outside pealing apart but need to get them both fixed.
Outside is pealing apart and it's getting worse. When I bought the car last year, I assume they glued it, it looked fine. Then right after there was a small part of that was visible and it has grown.
Today, I just noticed the plastic trim around the inside window is broke on both sides. I posted a picture, it's the same on both sides.
I am more worried about the outside pealing apart but need to get them both fixed.
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 21
Likes: 3
From: Kingston Jamaica
1999 CLK 230K
I am very sorry to say, but based on my experience with this you are going to need a NEW roof. I had to purchase an original roof almost 6 months ago because the tear got so bad that when it rained water would flow into the tear, down behind the rear interior quarter panel, pooled under the rear seat and then overflowed down behind the carpet. The foam backing is so thick behind the carpets, it was a pain to dry.
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 445
Likes: 11
From: Washington, DC Metro Area
Currently: 2019 E450 AWD, Previous: 2002 CLK55 Cab
I would agree sadly. However before you go down the new roof road I have two last ditch, possibly less expensive, options for you. 1- repair. Ask around, including at boat yards to see if they know of a shop that repairs convertible or canvas tops. If so the top will have to come off the car and be taken apart for any good repair to have a chance of working; 2- salvage yard, check online or have your repair shop check the online salvage yards nationwide for a clK cab top in good condition. Note: before you head down this road you need to compare the parts number for the clk55 top and see if is the same as the clk 500, 430, 320 tops as there are likely to.be more of those available in salvage yards just based on sales volume. Good luck.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 1,427
Likes: 100
From: Florida
2002 CLK 55 AMG cabriolet Eurocharged
Repairs are possible if the canvas is good, The seam in the first photo is repairable.
City Rat had a good suggestion about boat canvas repair guys/gals etc...
The only way to get a new headliner is with a new top, according to the dealer.
I think an upholstery guy/gal etc... can fabricate one as well.
Its all about cost, life of canvas.
Check for extended wear around the rear glass and front pillars.
Cheers, Gator
City Rat had a good suggestion about boat canvas repair guys/gals etc...
The only way to get a new headliner is with a new top, according to the dealer.
I think an upholstery guy/gal etc... can fabricate one as well.
Its all about cost, life of canvas.
Check for extended wear around the rear glass and front pillars.
Cheers, Gator
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
2002 CLK430 Convertible
Hey mgworek - not sure if you were able to get the seams repaired, but since I started looking into this on this forum as well as checking with a local convertible top shop - the recommended fix is canvas tent seam glue (McNett Seam Grip) or Rhino Glue. I was able to pick up the Seam Grip at Dick's Sporting Goods for under $8 - will apply this weekend
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 1,427
Likes: 100
From: Florida
2002 CLK 55 AMG cabriolet Eurocharged
I didn't think the 3-m spray would hold up on canvas, I have used it on the fine cloth around the speaker covers and lower door panel areas with success.
I was thinking of any canvas repair adhesive that requires some serious heat(gun maybe) or chemical melt bond.
My top was repaired once but the process is unknown, and undetectable. The economy has forced many of the boat guys into retirement.
Mcnet seam grip - Is it a 3-m or DuPont ? XXX-mart is the only sports store around unless you need sneakers or golf clubs. Piiing. LOL
Gator
I was thinking of any canvas repair adhesive that requires some serious heat(gun maybe) or chemical melt bond.
My top was repaired once but the process is unknown, and undetectable. The economy has forced many of the boat guys into retirement.
Mcnet seam grip - Is it a 3-m or DuPont ? XXX-mart is the only sports store around unless you need sneakers or golf clubs. Piiing. LOL
Gator
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Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2013
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2002 CLK430 Convertible
Gator - your probably correct on the 3M spray - was thinking out loud. As for the McNett - they have several different companies under them - Gear Aid is the maker of the seam grip. I used this last week to fix the separating seams and so far the area fixed is holding up great (only time will be the true test). I've seen it available online via amazon and here is the link to the product web site:
http://www.mcnett.com/gearaid/seam-grip#10510
Not sure what part of Fla you reside in but the website shows 3 outdoor outfitters in Fla that carry the product - 2 in Gainsville and 1 in Jax
http://www.mcnett.com/gearaid/seam-grip#10510
Not sure what part of Fla you reside in but the website shows 3 outdoor outfitters in Fla that carry the product - 2 in Gainsville and 1 in Jax
Last edited by sklim; Jul 23, 2013 at 08:21 AM. Reason: added info
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Member
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 75
Likes: 1
2003 CLK430
Even if you are able to correct the condition with the canvas, that plastic trim piece is not replaceable (notably because it isn't available). My convertible top cover is fine, but that rear window surround is broken on mine too.
I've seen complete tops for around $500 on ebay.
I've seen complete tops for around $500 on ebay.
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 32
Likes: 4
From: LOS ANGELES CA
2011 E350 BLUETEC
Even if you are able to correct the condition with the canvas, that plastic trim piece is not replaceable (notably because it isn't available). My convertible top cover is fine, but that rear window surround is broken on mine too.
I've seen complete tops for around $500 on ebay.
I've seen complete tops for around $500 on ebay.
i don't think this is correct--i've seen other threads with link to the plastic surround: https://www.mbpartscenter.com/oem-pa...ame-2087770107
Not sure if it's a part that's stocked, just didn't want misinformation on this board.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,258
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From: Boston North Shore
2001 CLK320 Cabrio
i don't think this is correct--i've seen other threads with link to the plastic surround: https://www.mbpartscenter.com/oem-pa...ame-2087770107
Not sure if it's a part that's stocked, just didn't want misinformation on this board.
Not sure if it's a part that's stocked, just didn't want misinformation on this board.
Last edited by Serndipity; Oct 22, 2018 at 11:39 PM.
Member
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 75
Likes: 1
2003 CLK430
i don't think this is correct--i've seen other threads with link to the plastic surround: https://www.mbpartscenter.com/oem-pa...ame-2087770107
Not sure if it's a part that's stocked, just didn't want misinformation on this board.
Not sure if it's a part that's stocked, just didn't want misinformation on this board.
