Rudeney

I have a SmartTop module installed and I'm having a problem with it. It is supposed to allow the roof to operate at speeds up to 39mph. Mine does, but the final close of the lid (whether opening or closing the roof) does not work unless I slow down, to around 25mph.

SmartTop support (which is always excellent, BTW), has had me do some tests and we think it is being caused by wind resistance. Apparently, the hydraulics on my car are not strong enough to overcome more than a 25mph breeze blowing against the lid. While operating it, I walked around and grabbed the lid with my hand as it started to close, and it took very little effort to stop it from moving. And by little, I mean not much more than just resting my hand on it.

So, if anyone would like to help, let me know how much effort it takes to keep your SL's lid from closing. If you have a SmartTop, you can do this with your key, but if not, you'll need a helper to hold the switch in the car.

BlownV8

How long did the install take?

Dave3359

Hi Rodney just went out and tried to stop my roof from closing I couldn't even slow it down it just about pushed me over. Also I don't have the smart top module hopefully this help you to figure out what going on with yours

Rudeney

I originally had the SmartTop on my CLK, and it's the same module for the SL. It's actually very easy to install if you have skills in auto electronics (i.e. installing radios, etc.) It connects to the fuse box and CAN bus terminal under the rear stowage compartment int he cabin. Their instructions are very good:

http://www.mods4cars.com/sms/db/smar...tall_sl/en.php


Thanks a bunch, Dave - that's what I expected. I don't think my issue is in the hydraulic cylinder itself, but in the Lift-O-Mat strut on the right side. I believe the hydraulic cylinder is used mainly for lifting, while the gas strut is used pull the lid back down. I may replace that and see if that helps.

Dave3359

Rodney just so I understand what you're saying is the lift-o-mat strut the gas strut that supports the trunk lid when opening the truck conventionally?

Rudeney

When the lid opens backward for roof operation, there are two struts for this operation - one on the left that is hydraulically operated, and one on the right that is a generic gas-charge "Lift-o-mat" strut. The gas strut is used to help carry the weight of the lid and also hold it in place if the hydraulic pump is stopped. My idea is that since the hydraulic strut on the left has no issues opening the lid, maybe the gas strut on the right is binding. Just an idea! It very well may be that the left hydraulic strut is weak, but online when it retracts.

Dave3359

So when I operate my roof my I notice that the left side seams to open first then the right side follows for the lack of a better description the trunk lid is slightly cocked is this normal? From your statement the hydraulic cylinder pushes harder than the gas strut is that why I get that uneven opening of the trunk lid thanks just trying to gain knowledge on the operations of the car

Rudeney

Yeah, mine does that, too. I am not sure if this gas strut is the issue, though. Refer to this:

http://benzbits.com/r230/Roof/VarioR...gnosticAid.pdf

Cylinders 4 and 5 lock the lid in it final position, so it may be that the left cylinder is faster or stronger than the left.

Dave3359

Thanks again for all the knowledge and support that's what makes these forums a great tool