Black96

I need to replace the headlight(s) on my 96 SL500 but I cant get the hood to unlock. I've pulled the lever on the inside to the point were I thought I was going to break it, but I can't get the hood to pop. I've tried having a friend pull the lever while I banged and pulled on the hood but no good. Any thoughts?

Thank You

SRHsl600

does the cable move, when you lift the inside lever? does the safety flange in the star pull forward?

Black96

I apologize for my delay in answering your reply. The cable would only move a little, the rest of the motion was the little plastic release bending. I solved the problem this AM by removing the release handle, grabbing the cable with vise grips and pulling. Once the hood was open, I WD 40'd the locks and cables and it seems to work fine; for now.

Thank-you for your reply

MB-Dude

I would suggest applying some grease to the latch mechanisms. WD40 is a great cleaner and loosening solvent, but lousy as a long-term lubricant. Look for white lithium grease in a spray can and spray the grease into the latches. Then without closing the hood, operate the hood release a couple of times. Apply again. The lithium grease will lubricate longer and the spray application will get it deep into the mechanism.
Cheers,
Jeff

Black96

Thank-You for the advice. I wasn't sure which lube to use. I thought about graphite or silicone since the locks seem to be gunked up with some kind of blue or black bearing grease. I will give your suggestion a try.

Thank-You