SL500 (03) annoying rattle when roof up

[Graham Stevens]

I'm sure I read somewhere ages ago (before I got one) about a design fault on the SL series whereby the folding roof mechanism develops an annoying rattle, (more of a poppy, plasticky rattle than anything), when the roof is in place whilst travelling over not-too-smooth surfaces. When it is folded away and down, the rattle disappears. I would really like to eliminate it and wonder if there was a likely/regular culprit causing it, to which one of you may know the solution.

 

[television]

Hi Graham, yes I have been in SL's where the roof rattles when up. In my last Workshop manuals there was nothing in there to suggest a fix.

I have the latest now and I will look later in the day to see if there is anything in the new one

 

[rhlatki]

SL 500 Roof Rattles (03)

Has anyone determined a fix they are willing to share for this problem?

 

[Mic]

Has anyone determined a fix they are willing to share for this problem?

Try Krytox

Mic

 

[drmw]

There are several individual methods that combined should eradicate most or all of the noises - you will need to search the forum (usually listed under R230)

In my case, the solution was pretty straightforward (this applies to many other as well) - the noises are usually not rattles as such, but the noise made when a rubber seal moves against a metal panel.

You need to prop the roof half open, clean every rubber seal and the corresponding metal with something like methylated spirits, then apply some of this: Lubricant part number A000 989 36 60 cost approx £34 in UK.

Very important - don't over apply and once on, leave the roof in that position for an hour so the stuff "dries in"