SL/R129: 99 sl500 top
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 4,037
Likes: 1,012
From: Miami, FL
2003 CL 600
They are not designed to be stored in the folded position, they should have the tension in them from being in the full up position when parked for extended periods.
Even if it doesn't crease the window, it will crease the fabric and greatly increase the chance of it splitting next time you raise the top.
Even if it doesn't crease the window, it will crease the fabric and greatly increase the chance of it splitting next time you raise the top.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 598
Likes: 19
From: Eastern Kansas
94 SL 600, 98 993, 89 XJS Conv., 85 Daimlier Princess 16 Hybrid Lincoln 16 Chevy crewcab
My take is less on the back window ( I place a bath towel roll in the window area ) and not concerned with the fabric ( I clean before closing ) but on the debris from everywhere!
A cat has rewarded me with rabbit entrails on the driver seat, A helper dropped a fire extinguisher, the leaf vac/blower did! etc
In Kansas I keep the top down for nice drives year round. The hard top goes on for visits to the mechanic and multi day drives because the wife of 52 years hates the open car ( a way to escape for day trips! )
I have replaced three back windows ( in 3 different R 129's ) but the reason was first the brown discoloration.
When the soft top is moved I make sure the vehicle and air temp is warm. ( warm outside or heated space before hitting the button! ) the cold weather move has split the plastic every time.
A cat has rewarded me with rabbit entrails on the driver seat, A helper dropped a fire extinguisher, the leaf vac/blower did! etc
In Kansas I keep the top down for nice drives year round. The hard top goes on for visits to the mechanic and multi day drives because the wife of 52 years hates the open car ( a way to escape for day trips! )
I have replaced three back windows ( in 3 different R 129's ) but the reason was first the brown discoloration.
When the soft top is moved I make sure the vehicle and air temp is warm. ( warm outside or heated space before hitting the button! ) the cold weather move has split the plastic every time.
Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
2006 Aston Martin Vantage
I can't speak for your situation directly, but I just want to point out that people do drive the car around with the hardtop installed all year long. As you know, with the hard top installed, the soft top is technically down. With that said, I wouldn't worry too much about it.
And as mentioned by SRHsl600, before you even operate the top, you will want the car to be in a warm environment for a few hours.
And as mentioned by SRHsl600, before you even operate the top, you will want the car to be in a warm environment for a few hours.
