I would also be interested in the lubrication points. Several years ago there was a post about lubricating all the rubber gaskets and water seals on the Vario Roof. The post recommended a tiny (and very expensive) bottle of lubricant for the rubber parts. Sorry, I have no recollection of the lubricant, but I think it was an official MB part.
I would also be interested in the lubrication points. Several years ago there was a post about lubricating all the rubber gaskets and water seals on the Vario Roof. The post recommended a tiny (and very expensive) bottle of lubricant for the rubber parts. Sorry, I have no recollection of the lubricant, but I think it was an official MB part.
Bumping this back to the top.
Thank you for your replies, While lube for the seals is important, I was hoping to get info. on the lubrication points/locations for the mechanical (hinges, rollers, etc. parts of the roof.
I can tell you some of the hinges are pretty buried (headliner etc.... ) You'll need to brace the top in the halfway position to access some of the hinges too.
As you can guess, not too much knowledge base on the R231 forums on this subject.
Probably want some sort of White lithium spray.
I know the SLK guys have had some posts on this preventive maintenance in the past, and I assume the R230 forums too. Maybe worth checking those forums.
I have attached some WIS info showing some of the hinge locations. But, there is not a specific hinge "maintenance" section.
I couldn't find any lube recommendations in WIS for the roof mechanism. Strange because Mercedes is usually pretty picky when it come to fluids. I'm using a silicone spray for the time being. Easier application and not messy.
I can tell you some of the hinges are pretty buried (headliner etc.... ) You'll need to brace the top in the halfway position to access some of the hinges too.
As you can guess, not too much knowledge base on the R231 forums on this subject.
Probably want some sort of White lithium spray.
I know the SLK guys have had some posts on this preventive maintenance in the past, and I assume the R230 forums too. Maybe worth checking those forums.
I have attached some WIS info showing some of the hinge locations. But, there is not a specific hinge "maintenance" section.
Good Luck
Thanks for the Docs!
I can't help wondering if the bushings are self lubricating.
Thanks for the Docs!
I can't help wondering if the bushings are self lubricating.
Visually they appear to be sintered (self lubricating) bushings. They are assembled dry so that may be the case.
Tough to confirm 100% without one in hand though…
Visually they appear to be sintered (self lubricating) bushings. They are assembled dry so that may be the case.
Tough to confirm 100% without one in hand though…
R231 Hinge Bushing:
I was afraid of that. I've used white lithium spray grease twice now. Hopefully no damage done.
I was afraid of that. I've used white lithium spray grease twice now. Hopefully no damage done.
Meh, I doubt this would have any longterm effect if they actually are sintered. These bushings don’t see much rotational heat, say like a pilot bushing.
I think their primary purpose is to give the bolts/hardware a proper bearing surface vs the aluminum that the hinges are made from. Probably more for noise reduction more than wear.
I don’t think grease will hurt.
Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.
