96 SL500 Hydraulic Leak??
 

After lowering my soft-top, I noticed a small drop of what appears to be hydraulic fluid driping from the top most area of the passenger side window support post adjacent to the sun visor. I wiped it up and the drip reappeared approximately 10 min. later. Is this something that has come loose, or is this a trip to the dealership?

Thank you

RE: 96 SL500 Hydraulic Leak??
 

jpsetlif,

The leak you found was symptomatic of a failed or failing hydraulic cylinder at the front latch. Suggest you do a search on this forum as much has been written about this topic, the parts required, the steps to replace and install new ones, and contact for a cylinder rebuilder who will save you a small/large fortune as opposed to the dealer.

Bob

RE: 96 SL500 Hydraulic Leak??
 

Please see this post for an answer to your problem.

https://mercedesforum.com/m_4115/tm.htm

RE: 96 SL500 Hydraulic Leak??
 

If any of you are having problems with hydraulic cylinders leaking, I can rebuild any of the 12 hydraulic cylinders for an R129 SL for $30 each + $10 total shipping. I highly recommend that you have the cylinders repaired in pairs. I will warranty the seal I replace for 3 years. In most cases I will have your cylinders back in the mail the following business day after I receive them. You can find discussions about my work on benzworld.org and mercedesshop.com in the SL forums. I also repair the cylinders for the W124 convertible for the same charges.


Dennis Ficken
16285 S. Chester
Olathe, Ks 66062

(913) 390-0506

mercedescylinders@sbcglobal.net
mainshipmed@sbcglobal.net