Replacing tension cable
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 174
Likes: 10
2003 CLK 320 cabriolet
Replacing tension cable
So I am preparing to replace the broken tension cable and have run into an issue. The set screw for the handle was stripped, which of course I didn't see until I made it worse. I have tried Allen wrenches, Torx heads, super glue, rubber band, aluminum foil... now it is a total mess. So... anyone have other ideas how to remove? Or, more simply, I didn't want to force the plastic piece off, but can you remove the plastic kart of the roof liner without taking the handle off?
Many thanks!
Many thanks!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,259
Likes: 212
From: Boston North Shore
2001 CLK320 Cabrio
Haven't had either issue, but I would try unfastening the 4 screws to see if the plastic molding drops down enough over the handle's stem to allow anchoring the cable to the front bow. Just be careful that you don't break the tabs on the side opposite the screws.
If not, I would carefully drill out the set screw. Then you (or a machine shop) can tap new new threads. You can also go to a 'pick and take' salvage yard and remove the handle off another cabriolet that insurance totaled.
Here re some sites where you can check current inventory near you.
https://row52.com/Search
https://www.lkqpickyourpart.com/locations/
If not, I would carefully drill out the set screw. Then you (or a machine shop) can tap new new threads. You can also go to a 'pick and take' salvage yard and remove the handle off another cabriolet that insurance totaled.
Here re some sites where you can check current inventory near you.
https://row52.com/Search
https://www.lkqpickyourpart.com/locations/
Last edited by Serndipity; Apr 3, 2019 at 05:41 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,259
Likes: 212
From: Boston North Shore
2001 CLK320 Cabrio
Prior to having to drill out the set screw, one other thought would be, using a Dremel tool and appropriate bit, you might be able to notch the screw, where a flat blade screwdriver might be able to remove the screw.
The shaft is not 360 degrees around, but has a flat section where the set screw just holds the handle onto the shaft against the flat section.
Be careful of pulling down with to much force on the handle, as doing so, some owners have pulled the shaft right out of the latch mechanism.
It might be more desirable to proceed with handle removal, having the top retracted into the soft top compartment.
The shaft is not 360 degrees around, but has a flat section where the set screw just holds the handle onto the shaft against the flat section.
Be careful of pulling down with to much force on the handle, as doing so, some owners have pulled the shaft right out of the latch mechanism.
It might be more desirable to proceed with handle removal, having the top retracted into the soft top compartment.
Last edited by Serndipity; Apr 4, 2019 at 09:12 PM.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 174
Likes: 10
2003 CLK 320 cabriolet
So I was able to pull up the plastic cover and move it enough to access the connection point. Now I can see what to do 😃. The plastic housing at the end is still intact; now just looking through old threads to see if can be reused and how to remove it without breaking it...
