sleepy hollow

So, when the top is up and I hit a bump that racks or twists the body of the car (that is, both front wheels do not hit the bump at the same time since the bump is diagonal to the road or only hits one wheel), I get a loud sharp squeak that sounds like metal on metal.

It sounds like it is coming from directly overhead on driver's side. I am not positive, but I would pinpoint it at the latch of the ragtop to the windshield frame.

Questions:

1. Are others experiencing this? (I bet some are.)

2. Am I correct in suspecting that this is likely associated with the latching of the roof to the windshield frame?

3. Suggested solutions? Is there information available on a recommended lubrication procedure and lubrication point(s) that might help with the problem? What lubrication material should I use - white lithium, dry graphite, grease, etc?

4. Is there anything published about how to properly maintain the convertible top system as far as lubricating the many joints and moving parts?

Thanks.

archony

The last time it happened to me the dealer fixed it when I had it in for service; I did not ask what kind of lubricant they used.

sleepy hollow

Dealer supposedly "fixed" mine as well while under warranty. Warranty expired in Sep 08. I can go back and argue with them, but I suspect whatever they did was lubricate. Would rather do it myself actually.

Thanks.

sleepy hollow

Just wanted to close this thread out. I spent some time last year carefully examining the surfaces where the top contacts the body of the car and found an area on the drivers side that showed metal on metal contact. The black paoint had been rubbed off. I cleaned this area and sprayed some silicon lube on it. Squeek was gone and is just now coming back after more than a year. I need to reinspect the surfaces again since I can no longer recall exactly waht I found.

Shockvalue

Even though it may not entirely the cause of your issue it is a reminder to keep an eye on the roof to body frame seals and treat with Gummi Pflege. This stuff is amazing the way it reduces squeaks on convertibles. I use it on my CLK320.