Mercedes A209 CLK - How To Manually Operate The Top

[@majestixamvs4917]

This is the Best mercedes convertible top tutorial on KZbin

[@TopHydraulics]

Thank you, that makes me feel good! We are not professionals at making videos, so I am glad that the subject and the important details are coming across. We actually purchased this car in order to have plenty of time to make DIY videos on it, and to learn about all those little details that people were asking us about on the phone every day, such as the manual top operation, removing the cylinders or the pump, and troubleshooting the microswitches on the top. I have never seen myself in a video before 2018, so all of this was a bit awkward in the beginning, and we had quite a learning curve with lighting, sound, close-ups, etc...

[@tamjohnson9904]

@@TopHydraulics i took all the neccessary steps but i cant seem to get the back out with the straps i wonder do the partition skibag light thats on have anything to do with it. It just seems the pressure isnt released

[@tarquinlesuperbe]

MERCI...

[@PeteDTube]

Super helpful , Thx

[@Portokalii]

Can you help me please , the silver think its dont come uot and move , so i can open manually, how can i fix this?

[@TopHydraulics]

You must be referring to the release buttons on the bottom of the black tonneau cover lift cylinders. It can take a good amount of force to have them come out far enough to turn - try harder.

[@sebastianlawrence9406]

Mine is stuck what should I do?

[@TopHydraulics]

First check the hydraulic fluid level in the pump after you have fully opened or closed the top manually.

[@sebastianlawrence9406]

@@TopHydraulics my right release button is stuck and won’t pull out.

[@TopHydraulics]

@@sebastianlawrence9406 Try harder. If the tonneau cover is closed all the way, then it may help to have one person leaning on the cover while you are trying to release the button on the bottom of the tonneau cover cylinder. If you cannot releases both buttons, then disconnect the tops of the tonneau cylinders from the tonneau cover as shown in our video on tonneau cover cylinder removal.

[@sebastianlawrence9406]

@@TopHydraulics well I am in the process of putting it back on, left side pressure release as seen in the video but the right side won’t come out when I pull on it. Is there anyway we can further this conversation privately ?

[@sebastianlawrence9406]

Now the cover won’t Aline for meh to lock it🤦🏾‍♂️

[@dstock66]

Excellent video, thank you! Very complete and professional

[@cakie8660]

I been riding with my top down for entire year 🤦🏾‍♀️ this helped me so much I did it all on my own🙌🏾 I love my car!😩 thank you❤️

[@peterthetrunk]

What can I say. Klaus is the MAN. The only video or description on the net that explains in simple words and action how to do this. I got it done.

[@peterbullen3347]

Question , if my pump is working fine and no obvious leaks that I can see, would it be reasonable to buy all the cylinders and replace but keep the pump ? The videos are so good I feel a nice weekend job to fit them

[@judithd.maruska-cissner-pr7666]

Thank you so much. Excellent, excellent job explaining what I could not understand from other videos. My '05 clk 320 will be topless soon! You made this look so effortless! Thank you, Jude.

[@wintermoon9551]

Exactly what we needed. Thank you! -very helpful.

[@larryyoung1970]

Excellent series of videos, step by step instructions go a long way to help make the job easy.

[@robertolovisa7778]

Thank you so much! Perfect explain , prrfect job.great

[@peterbullen3347]

I think I have a small leak somewhere, I topped it up as was a little low, it is working fine but I suspect it was low for a reason. Now I need to decide to replace them all or find the leak? 2004 clk 500, been very reliable car.. suggestion anyone

[@dennisfarraye]

This video is awesome..Klaus is so good...However I can not open my top manually using these steps..i try pulling on straps and cover only comes out a little not allowing my glass to be lifted...please advise

[@keeponcruisin7876]

Thank you. I'm trading my bike for a CLK500 and the top doesn't work. I watched some of your other video for diagnosing problems. This should help me with fixing mine.

[@CarFailsAndCrazyVids]

you’ll love it, they’re super fun to have. Becoming a collector car too, hold onto it if you can.

[@keeponcruisin7876]

@@CarFailsAndCrazyVids this is my second benz in a row. I went from a 96 w202 C280 (black with grey vinyl. Twin cam straight six. (I've had 3 straight 6s before in supra and a jeep.) The C280 was a fabulous car. It could have stands more sound dampening @ higher speeds. Otherwise a great car. Traded it for a bike. Went through 3 bikes and now I'm ready to be back in a car. "Bessie" looks good in the carport. Right at home here in a retirement community in Florida. She needs some bushings in the front linkage. Roof doesn't work. Alignment in the back. Couple other little things. Nice hearing that M113 purr. After 3 years on bikes, a convertible is a MUST. I can tell already, I won't let go of this 04 for a while.. 129k on it. My cousin has had it a year. Even trade for my 06 Kawasaki Z1000. Which is a hoot to ride!

[@Will-wg3hj]

Excellent video Klaus! Thank you... I love this car, I just don't have an operating top. I'll work on it tomorrow. 👍 Ausgezichnet

[@ZamanMalik-n4k]

amazingly helpful

[@tonycastro6154]

wow good videos thank you so much,,with your calm voice i could even do brain surgery if guided by you....

[@wsgjr.9040]

Absolutely the BEST Mercedes convertible top tutorial on You Tube, or on any forum on the internet! Thank you for doing this. If I have a problem I can't solve, I want to do business with you!

[@TopHydraulics]

Thank you for your kind words - that feels good! It is a joy to us when we know that our work and even our modest videos are helping out.

[@tamjohnson9904]

@@TopHydraulics i took the steps but i wasnt able to pull back up with straps it seems if the pressure is not released or do the parition skibag light thats pops on have anything to do with it

[@shanegee8651]

I found it really helpful to take a long metal pipe and put the straps around it so two people can tug on that pipe instead of the straps. They were so inefficient to hold that I thought my car didn't have this function because of how difficult it was to get the back panel initially popped up. A single pipe also ensures that each person it pulling at the same rhythm. Also, put a microfiber towel on your trunk lid when you go to flip up the metal cover - your paint will thank you later.

[@TopHydraulics]

Excellent suggestion, thank you!

[@MrJoekool30]

Where can I buy these straps? My CLK didn't come with them...is there a part number????

[@ricklampe77]

Just use some nylon straps from Lowes.

[@ricklampe77]

I cant tell you how many times I have reviewed the exceptional videos provided on the Mercedes CLK350 W209 CONVERTIBLE. I have rebuilt every cyclinder with new metric o-rings as after a few years they require replacement and the Mercedes dealership wanted $850 per cyclinder to rebuild.

[@TopHydraulics]

Hello rick, thanks for your kind words. It has been a pleasure working with you. Just to clarify for those who are reading the comment, Top Hydraulics has rebuilt the cylinders for you. Each cylinder has on average seven seals, which all need to be replaced, and two of those are actually o-rings. We replace and upgrade the cup-shaped rod seal, the piston seal, wiper seal gland seals and port seals. DIY seal replacement is not an option on A209 CLK cylinders, as they are crimped together and it takes expert machining and CNC machined inserts to accommodate the new seals. The rebuilt and upgraded cylinders from Top Hydraulics are actually better inside than brand new cylinders from Mercedes because we did not try to save a few pennies by using biodegradable seals. Again, thanks for your kind words!

[@karenspruill112]

Wow

[@dparham]

where can I get the straps to open the back? i used a belt but I want the straps... cant seem to locate them online

[@TheLosMenores]

Hello, why doesn't my car have these cylinders? I need to open the hood manually. Can someone tell me how I can open it or if I don't need these cylinders? Clk 320 w209 2004

[@TopHydraulics]

Are the last six numbers on your 2004 CLK's VIN less than 009480? In that case, you would have an early production version without the release button on the bottoms of the tonneau cover lift cylinders. The way to open the cover manually in that case would be to disconnect the tops of the tonneau cylinders from the cover, as shown here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpWalmicm6d-e7M

[@antoniohidalgo3583]

Thanks for the video i could close the roof following the video, but the roof doesnt move automatically, one of the back cilinders make noise and i have seen the hydraulic tank is empty, can be the problem that theres no hydraulic or a cylinder is broken?

[@TopHydraulics]

If the reservoir (tank) on the pump has a fluid level below the MIN marker on it, then you have a leak and you have to deal with it. Very likely, that leak is from one or more of the seven hydraulic cylinders. If the reservoir is empty AND you can’t find fluid on the bottom of the black tonneau/case cover lift cylinders or around the pump, then the main leak is likely on the bottoms of the main lift cylinders. Here is playlist of our W209 CLK DIY videos: kzbin.info/aero/PLly4CMbpk7owNRAl-AECemIb0SVihtBlV

[@chrisadams6595]

Very useful video , my 2003 clk top failed the other week , took it to the local independent MB specialist (WDM cars) who cleaned a couple of electrical micro switches and reset it , they charged me a very reasonable 90 GBP, but as we are traveling further afield , throughout Europe with this car we need to be able to do it ourselves , so I want to thank you for posting this video. Yes there is a section in the handbook which explains it all , but the video is so much better.

[@chrisadams6595]

And ofcourse the roof has been 100% reliable for the 10 years I've owned this car till the other week , so you never bother to sort how to do it manually

[@gh0sted41]

The part where you pull it open is still locked for me

[@jl9205]

Is that all? Haha Lots of automation we take for granted until it's not working.

[@gedemir]

How much does the cylinder cost? And do you have to replace both of them or you can change only one?

[@TopHydraulics]

Thanks for asking. All prices are on the CLK section of our website: www.tophydraulics.com/24-w209-clk It would be wise to replace cylinders at least in pairs.

[@twinpacifique269]

Best tutorial about CLK convertible.

[@13jrvernon]

If my top can't go down on its own. Its staying up

[@tonycarroll6449]

Pressure release button on either side will not turn. Thank you so much for the video. The issue I ran into after watching the video is not being able to turn the pressure release button on either side. I am working on a 2005 CLK500.I was not comfortable putting to much pressure on them. Same on both sides. I also turned the pressure release valve open and tried to turn the tonneau cover lift cylinders with it open and closed, and still could not turn the pressure release button on either side. Do you have any suggestions on what I maybe doing wrong?

[@TopHydraulics]

The buttons on the bottoms of the tonneau lift cylinders 209-800-12-72-64 are actually mechanical releases. As such, they can stick a little. What releases the bottom of the cylinders is pulling the buttons out far enough. Once they are pulled out far enough, the buttons can be rotated to stay in the extended position. It appears that your buttons haven't been pulled far enough if you were not able to turn them yet. It may help if someone pushed down on the rear corner of the tonneau cover while you pull out the button, as that will take some tension off the locking mechanism that you are trying to release.

[@tonycarroll6449]

Hi Klaus, Great help today from you. I was able to release the top pin and then able to turn the pressure release on both sides. Go with me on this idea. I am certain that I have followed all instructions provided by your wonderful videos, performing them one step at a time to manually open the top. The tonneau cover will not open. Say I am following all the steps to perfection and the tonneau cover will not move, which is where I am. Anything you have seen or can think of that would cause the cover not to open? I messed around with just trying to get the tonneau open today about 6 hours. I also removed the 4 bolts on both latches where we have the strap to manually lift the tonneau and could not get it to move an inch. I have tried several ways, assure the latches where forward, tried them backwards, mid way. All pressure is release, and still cannot get it to move. Pump check passed as your video help us check it. Thank you for the help and ideas this morning, and hope you can help me get this open to replace the hydraulics.

[@tonycarroll6449]

Watched the Video just now and noticed we did not have all the windows down. Will try this Saturday and see what happens. Do you have a closer picture of the location of the straps? In between the metal??

[@peterbullen3347]

Klaus, I think I have found my leak, I see some oil from just in front of the rear wheel, under the rear passenger seat. on driver side( RHD) , do I just need to replace the leaking one or will the others be on way out too?

[@dennisfarraye]

How can i reach out t0 top hydraulics ? I have a question

[@TopHydraulics]

You can reach us through the contact link on our website: www.tophydraulics.com/contact-us. I see that you contacted us already a few minutes after posting here and that your question has been answered. It can be hard to pull the tonneau cover open manually. If necessary, you can disconnect the tops of the tonneau cover cylinders from the tonneau cover to make the job easier, as shown here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpWalmicm6d-e7M. Be careful with the cover in the open position if you do this.

[@wiki-leak]

Excellent video Most of the leakage area is plastic pipes touching the sharp edge of the rear shelf Look at the TSB number LI77-37_P-062885 (TSB date 2015/12/15)

[@postitandwatchit1434]

Nice jobs my brother 👌💪👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿

[@postitandwatchit1434]

I have a 2008 CLK 350 Mercdes Convertible top hydraulic pump is completely empty that’s mean I have a leak or they can be empty overtime in normal use.

[@santisimarisingtv]

Excellent tutorial!!!!! Bravo!!!! 👍👍

[@heatherlong1163]

😎🆒️😎🆒️😎🆒️😎🆒️😎🆒️😎🆒️😎🆒️😎🆒️ 🆒️

[@stanhopeautorepaircentrewardak]

Hi I have W207 2014, I have released the soft top bow from the soft top compartment lid locks, but rhe soft top bow is not going to vertical position. Any help with that ?

[@TopHydraulics]

Are you saying that the rear bow is still mechanically binding on compartment lid? If so, have you tried moving the lid forward or back ward some more until the rear bow is fully released?

[@tas25]

My 2004 SLK roof got stuck as I was closing it. I followed this tutorial and was able to close the roof and everything manually, but the trunk won’t close. It won’t open either, its locked from the lock but there is a gap keeping it still open. Any advice? Trying to open/close from the buttons gives me an error “boot is open”.

[@germanmuscle2763]

Hey this video was very helpful but i was wondering how do i put hydraulic pump fluid in the tank ? Cause that all i need for it to work

[@TopHydraulics]

Hey, remove the plug on the pump’s reservoir and add proper fluid with a syringe. Use Mercedes fluid 0009899103. If the fluid level is low, then you have a leak somewhere and leaks only get worse. Thus, be sure to fix the leak if you want to keep using the top.

[@germanmuscle2763]

Thank u soo much, I’m going to figure out if there’s a leak first before i add any cause if there was a leak wouldn’t all the hydraulic fluid that’s in there be gone ?

[@germanmuscle2763]

And also when i put some in there do i fill it to the top or half way ?

[@muddasar124]

Hello,I have clk 200 2008 model soft top it is on top in operation I can hear noise some locks open but roof doesn't open can u please help me out. Thanks

[@dougnbodie]

This video saved me....Twice.

[@HungNguyen-sb1yu]

Hi, is there an easier way to push down the rear headrests when they pop up? I couldn't find the spring latch where the thread is. Please help.

[@garygarciamd6980]

Great tutuorial. Thank you. What are your thoughts if the process stops when the canvas top is down into the storage area, but the storage cover gets stuck vertical position? I would appreciate any input. TKS again.

[@TopHydraulics]

Just to avoid misunderstandings: is this happening while you are trying to open the top, or while you are closing it?

[@gbsg81]

Top Hydraulics thanks for the quick reply. While I am trying to open.

[@TopHydraulics]

@@gbsg81 It is unusual for the top to get stuck in this position while opening. My prime suspect is switch S84/18: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kH2slaKfrMR-irs

[@michobebemckawi]

On 2004 CLKs (mine a clk320) the are no Release button for the Case Cover cylinder in order to pull it and release the shaft. Also there are no rotary element on the pump where to fit a hex to release pressure. Any way to go about lifting the top manually without those 2? I can't have the cover move an inch with 2 strong people pulling!

[@TopHydraulics]

If the last six digits of your VIN are lower than 009490, then your CLK was originally equipped with case cover cylinders p/n A209 800 10 72, which do not have a release knob on the bottom. It is a design flaw and you will have to replace them with p/n A209 800 12 72 64. The design flaw is that there is friction built into the bottom of the old cylinder, which is supposed to keep the case cover in place without any kind of latching mechanism. That friction is s spring rubbing on the inside of the cylinder housing and it makes the housing rougher and rougher. The friction increases with time, until even the pump is not able to move the cover any more and you have to replace the poorly designed parts with the newer ones that have the release knob on the bottom (the cylinders have a mechanical catch built into the bottom, which the knob can release). All CLK pumps have pressure relief valves. If you have recently purchased this car, then I can imagine that someone has accidentally over-tightened the pressure relief knob on the top (thinking they had to tighten it more because the top didn't work) and broke off the Allen head. You can lift the cover if you disconnect the tops of the case cover cylinders from the case cover, as shown here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpWalmicm6d-e7M. I believe you can manually lift the top without opening the pressure relief valve on the pump. If that does not work, then you would have to remove the hoses from the pump first.

[@Blenderfordental]

Please, do you have a video on how to replace the soft top?

[@bobeschwin-mat768]

So, awhile back ago I had to manually put the top up on my 2006 CLK55 AMG. SO top is up and good. I think I fixed the issue, partion micro switch. Do I need to manully lower roof to start using again or can i just start using it again once putting the pressure nut back and the two cylinder holders

[@TopHydraulics]

You only need to make sure the pressure relief valve on the pump is closed again, you don't even have to worry about the release knobs on the bottoms of the black tonneau cover lift cylinders.

[@matfloor6974]

@@TopHydraulics So I closed the pressure relief valve. I push button to open the top and the windows go down. Then the bow comes up and the cover slides up and back a bit. That's where it stops now and wont go any further

[@TopHydraulics]

@@matfloor6974 Most likely, this micro switch took a hit during manual operation and might be dislodged like the one in the video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kH2slaKfrMR-irs

[@matfloor6974]

@@TopHydraulics Would it be same part number on a 2006 CLK 55 AMG

[@TopHydraulics]

If you compare the video to what is in your car, then you will see that the parts are identical. The part number is printed in tiny letters on the plastic holder of the switch assembly. Good luck!

[@rogerford5589]

I have E350, tried to pull release knobs out to turn but they wont come out. What am I doing wrong? Thx Also, if my roof will go down but not go up, what is the problem? Thx

[@TopHydraulics]

The release knobs on the bottom can be pretty tight when the weather stripping on the cover is tight. Have one person push on the rear corner of the cover while you try to pull the knob.

[@rogerford5589]

@@TopHydraulics in my case, my top is down and will not go back up so the entire roof roof is still stowed away with the cover over it, so I’m not sure what I’m supposed to push down on

[@TopHydraulics]

​@@rogerford5589 The knobs can be hard to pull if the storage cover is pulling up on the cylinders. That's why I'm recommending that someone else lean their body weight on the rear corner of the cover above the cylinder that you are trying to pull the knob on.

[@rogerford5589]

@@TopHydraulics OK but where exactly would that be on the corner of the lid that opens up just in front of the trunk?

[@TopHydraulics]

@@rogerford5589 Experiment and see what works...

[@yanalyomoha3744]

Great tutorial. Thank you so much. do you have a video about fixing the water leak

[@haigoto46]

Hey there. Where to get those straps you are using to pull the rear panel?. I do not have them in the trunk. Thanks.

[@simonsafi7589]

The most embarrassing thing that can happen on a cabriolet , thanks for the video

[@kathyjenkins1389]

Very simply slowly instructed video thanks for your help

[@LvninLA]

I was able to help a friend with a CLK550. Your video is very helpful. Thank you so much!

[@tamjohnson9904]

I did the steps but cant pull the back out with the straps i wonder do my light that say close partition skibag have anything to do with it

[@tonythomas9833]

I have just tried this today and it released the back glass but when I went to tilt the cover back it would not tilt back at all. It only moved a few inches and seemed frozen in position. . It was very hard and I decided not to keep pulling so i would not break anything. Any suggestions?

[@TopHydraulics]

By chance, are the last six numbers in your VIN less than 009490?

[@tonythomas9833]

@@TopHydraulics 018173

[@tonythomas9833]

@@TopHydraulics Is there a remedy?

[@TopHydraulics]

@@tonythomas9833 Are the last six numbers in your VIN less than 009490?

[@tonythomas9833]

@@TopHydraulics 018173

[@MrBaconHawk]

@Top Hydraulics I have a question about a car purchase. I'm looking at getting a daily driver that I can feel good about showing off to people. I found a 2005 Mercedes Benz CLK320 Convertible at 123k miles for only $3650. Everything in the car was replaced (other than engine mounts cause they're still good) at 100k and 120k miles, everything seems to be good (minus cosmetic wear on leather) and drives very smooth. The only issue is the convertible top doesn't work anymore and the leather is getting worn. Great maintenance records, only 2 owners. Is this a good buy or am I likely to see high repair costs in the near future? Will I likely be able to sell it in a year or so for a decent price if nothing serious happens? Let me know your thoughts, I'm very eager to know. If I do get it, I'll probably be using your videos and shop to try and fix the convertible top.

[@TopHydraulics]

Thanks for asking. If the only real problem with the car is the top not operating, then this sounds like an excellent deal. The top will eventually fail on any modern convertible, so you almost have to figure it into the cost of a used car, anyway.

[@MrBaconHawk]

@@TopHydraulics I finally bought it! Mechanic mentioned it had a small oil leak that was unlikely to cause any issues, but otherwise operates great. I really want to figure out how to fix the convertible top so I'll start troubleshooting it and go from there.

[@batz_r_nocturnal1737]

At 1:27, you mention the empty reservoir. My CLK is also empty. What is the fluid called, where can I get it, and is there any video on how to put in more of the hydraulic fluid? Thank you

[@TopHydraulics]

See kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWe6goR9lNhgoLM

[@davidcaruana4512]

Thanks for the very helpful video. Do you have a video on how to replace the A209 canvas soft-top

[@TopHydraulics]

I'm glad you found the video helpful. We don't have any videos on DIY replacement of the canvas top and I would know where to send you with that question.

[@SasuNaruSupporter]

I actually have the opposite problem with my car, the roof went down without a problem and now we can’t get the roof to come up. I’ve tried looking up what to do. Any suggestions?

[@TopHydraulics]

1) When you push the button to close the top, do you get a "top in operation" message in the dashboard? 2) If so, is the pump running?

[@locharrow2131]

Hi Klaus...remember me, the guy that fixed a leaking line in my CLK with a pair of hydraulic line connectors a few years back? Did you ever source those connectors. My son got them from a guy working on submersibles. On my third CLK now, 200 was t-boned, next a 240 that I traded for an all singing and dancing 2008 Mystic Red CLK 350....best car I have ever driven ....and that includes 2 Jaguar XK-E's.....!!

[@TopHydraulics]

Hello LochArrow, nice to hear from you! Congrats on your red CLK350, and glad to hear that you enjoy it so much. It must have been some five years ago that we communicated on the BenzWorld.org forum about your damaged hose. I congratulate you on your resourcefulness. Bummer that the car on which you fixed the hose got t-boned right away. My professional opinion is still that a screw-on coupler will not work well enough in the long run for these extra thin hoses. Couplers can work on older generation Mercedes cabriolet hydraulics that have the hoses permanently attached, but the extra 0.25mm wall thickness taken out of the CLK hoses makes any repair an accident waiting to happen. Top Hydraulics manufactures the CLK hoses and makes them better than new ones from Mercedes. Hose failures happen mostly in cool climates when the tops get operated at lower temperatures and the hoses get strained from being pulled on while not very flexible. The majority of viewers on this video likely either have a leak in on or more of their cylinders, or a failed pump. That's where the introduction video of the CLK hydraulic system comes in: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hWWtknxpgLN7g5o It is part of our playlist of 10 videos on operating, understanding, troubleshooting and fixing the CLK convertible top: kzbin.info/aero/PLly4CMbpk7owNRAl-AECemIb0SVihtBlV

congratulations, amazing tutorial; one question: wich oil type of hydraulic circuit? Thank you

[@TopHydraulics]

The oil type is Z-HM. Mercedes part number 0009899103. If you need to add fluid, then you have a leak somewhere. If you have a leak, then it will only get worse and you need to take care of it.

[@chrisdaviesguitar]

can you tell me the fuse or relay for the roof operation is please?

[@TopHydraulics]

Thanks for asking. There are two yellow relays next to the pump, attached to the pump's mounting frame. It would be smart to check the fuse first. The fuse is mounted in a small black enclosure (junction box) behind the driver side rear wheel well, practically in front of the pump. There are two fat wires going from the pump's wiring harness to this junction box. These are the red power wire and the black ground wire. The fuse is a flat 40A fuse going to the red power wire. It is not always easy to see whether the fuse is blown or not, which is why I find it easier to use a multimeter. Set your multimeter to DC Volts, have one probe go to ground (for example, the pump's mounting frame) and have the other probe go to the post that the red power wire is bolted to in this junction box. If there is no voltage on that post, then your fuse is blown. A blown fuse is a sure sign of a bad pump motor. Top Hydraulics rebuilds the pumps (their part numbers are A2098000548 or A2098000648, and the numbers printed on the pump are 2098000030, 2098000130 or 2098000330). The following link shows the location of the junction & fuse box for the pump's power and ground connection: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWe6goR9lNhgoLM. It is min 0:26 of our pump removal video. If you pause the video right there, then you see the pump in the middle and a threaded post with power wires on it a little higher up and forward of the pump, just before the carpeted panel covers the right side of the image. The threaded post is one of the two posts in the junction bow I referred to, and the fuse is bolted to it.

[@mercedesbenzcee6738]

@@TopHydraulics GREAT KNOWLEDGE MY FRIEND,

[@Bri11ante]

Is there a release mechanism to activate the lock from unlatching? It's extremely hard to turn and doesn't want to unlock. Or maybe the tonneau cover has to be lifted up all the way before I unlock it?

[@davidshaw3374]

Same as mine did you find a fix?

[@jacquesbenintendi9495]

Très intéressant mais où trouver, ailleurs que chez Mercedes, les composants hydrauliques nécessaires aux réparations ? Merci

[@TopHydraulics]

Go to www.tophydraulics.com/24-w209-clk

[@albertoquintana8965]

You are the best!. Easy, detailed, simply, clear. Thanks.

[@thercog]

I put the straps in the right place but no matter how hard I pulled the rear hatch won't open. Had a friend help and still won't open. Help

[@TopHydraulics]

Maybe you have an early production model without the release buttons on the bottom, or the release buttons are not pulled out? In either case, you can also disconnect the tops of the storage cover cylinders from the storage cover, as shown in our video on case cover lift cylinder removal: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpWalmicm6d-e7M That will make it very easy to move the storage cover with the straps.

[@ToddtheLoneDroner]

Looks like the 208 is a lot easier than the 209 glad I got the older one

[@blondwire]

omg! the best how to video ever!!!! i can do this, thank youuuuuu

[@TopHydraulics]

I am glad that you feel empowered now - you can do this! Just one detail: it takes two people to pull back the storage cover (tonneau cover) manually, unless you are really big and strong.

[@blondwire]

@@TopHydraulics yes i know, im sure ill find someone to help me, thank you ;)

[@tamjohnson9904]

I did all the necessary steps but i cant pull the back out with the straps i wonder do my light that says close partition skibag have anything to do with it

[@petergallagher5553]

Excellent video! Thanks for preparing it. I have a 2004 clk convertible. What is the purpose of the plastic levers on the tonneau cover hinges? You explain that these need to be rotated forward or you can't pull open the tonneau cover with the straps. A bit of plastic has broken on one of my hinges. The top is working fine but I am wondering if this means I will not be able to open the tonneau cover manually if I need to! KRs Pete Gallagher

[@TopHydraulics]

Thanks for asking. It is not uncommon for that plastic piece to break, and you should still be able to open the top manually. It is used as a means to keep the tonneau cover in the open position when the tonneau cover cylinder is not in place, which is unnecessary with the way we remove the cylinders in our videos.

[@petergallagher5553]

@@TopHydraulics that's good news! Thanks for your help. Saves me the cost and effort of seeking out some new bits of plastic!

[@mutazsalaita9020]

Thanks this was so helpful for me

[@damianlang532]

Hi I have a clk 200 there is no release buttons on the bottom of the cylinder is there any other way of opening the touno cover ?

[@TopHydraulics]

If there is no release button on the bottom of your case cover lift cylinders, then you have a very early production version A209 CLK with the obsolete case cover cylinders A2098001072. Unfortunately, the A2098001072's have a design flaw and they seize with time, which is why you cannot move the top manually without disconnecting the cylinders from the storage cover. Here is the trick: reach in from the trunk and disconnect the top clevis pin on each cylinder, which will disconnect the 2098001072's from the cover. Now you can easily move the cover by hand. Be sure to reconnect the cylinders when the cover is closed. To fix the problem, you will need to get two A2098001272 cylinders, as seen here: www.tophydraulics.com/w209-clk/50-2539-case-cover-w209.html#/30-core_exchange-send_your_parts_to_top_hydraulics_first

[@damianlang532]

Thank you

[@chonis12]

I pulled out the whole bolt from the tank and now it won’t go back in

[@TopHydraulics]

Sorry to hear that. Are you referring to the pressure relief valve on the pump? It gets damaged if you try to unscrew it all the way from the pump.

[@lewisburgon5826]

Hello, Thank you for this excellent video. Unfortunately my 2003 CLK does not have the pressure release buttons on the struts. Are there some models that have them in a different place? Thank you.

[@TopHydraulics]

Only the first production models with the last six digits of the VIN lower than 009490 have the obsolete tonneau cylinders p/n 2098001072 without the release button on the bottom. These are actually not pressure relief valves, but mechanical locks that keep the tonneau cylinder fully retracted on the proper cylinders p/n 209 800 12 72 64. In the obsolete 2098001072's, Mercedes relied on a lot of friction on the bottom of the cylinder housing to keep the cylinder retracted and thus keep the tonneau cover locked. Unfortunately, this friction increases with use, and the cylinders eventually seize in the retracted position. You will have to buy replacement 2098001272's. To manually open the top, you will have to disconnect the top of the 2098001072's from the tonneau cover.

[@lewisburgon5826]

@@TopHydraulics Thank you for that information. Very helpful. best wishes

[@capan.m]

Hello. I have mercedes w208 cabrio. Roof is stuck down. How big of a force you need to use to raise the roof up? I am trying to lift it manually but it is not moving.

[@sammygiusti5040]

you are number one !!

[@olen2808]

ThankYou.

[@chandanbiswas3910]

Helpful

[@jamesburgon]

Really enjoying these videos. Thank you klaus. My 2003 does not have the circular release buttons on the tonnneau cover lift cylinders. Is it still possible to manually lower the roof?

[@TopHydraulics]

You would need to reach from the trunk into the storage compartment and remove the upper mounting pins on the tonneau cylinders, as seen here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpWalmicm6d-e7M. You will have to insert those pins again once the top is down.

[@lewisburgon5826]

@@TopHydraulics Thank you. I will give it a shot when it stops raining! best regards, James

[@steveturner7212]

my 2004 model also does not have the release buttons

[@TopHydraulics]

@@steveturner7212 Bummer. These early models with obsolete tonneau cover lift cylinders also involve some early '04 models in the US.

[@sirmixalotrox]

Hello, thanks for the video, is there somewhere you can go to purchase these straps?

[@TopHydraulics]

I have heard that the straps are not available from Mercedes - that might be misinformation, though. You might try eBay for a used pair from someone who is parting out their CLk, or you could try to find something similar, such as a light duty dog leash.

[@sirmixalotrox]

Top Hydraulics Thank you.

[@mikedigg]

Perfect instructions 👍🏽

[@fidbau48]

THANK YOU!

[@JuanDiaz-db7dw]

Excelente

[@CaseyPhilson]

Hello, if fluid leaks from the pressure relief valve (1:55) do we need a whole new pump or is that valve replaceable?

[@CaseyPhilson]

We video taped in the trunk to see where it leaked from. kzbin.infowkOvy5bf5tQ?feature=share

[@TopHydraulics]

Outch, that's rare. Did someone overtighten the valve or try to unscrew it? To answer your question, this valve is not user replaceable. Unless someone has been very rough on it, we can probably fix it as part of the pump rebuild.

[@CaseyPhilson]

We've placed our order. We're bumming we're not close enough to bring it to y'all to be able to video the replacement in our e350. Thanks for your quick reply.

[@CaseyPhilson]

Hi, y'all! When we try to push down the plastic levels at 5:06 - they don't budge and we don't want to break them. Any thoughts on that? (2011 E350)

[@altops4490]

if auto deck lid closing feature is inop, it may lock out top operation.

[@BoxImpala313]

What does that mean i think thats what mine is doing

[@BoxImpala313]

How do i go about fixing that?

[@kuekuatsheumotley7902]

Where can I purchase the straps? Thy didn't come with my car...

[@hatespeach9835]

at the strap shack

[@sirmixalotrox]

Did you ever find somewhere to buy those straps? I am looking for some now for my 2009 clk 550

[@sirmixalotrox]

Kuekuatsheu Motley ^^^

[@JustJerryPodcast]

Will it work for clk 430

[@TopHydraulics]

The CLK430 is an A208 chassis, on which manual operation is actually easier. The manual top operation on on your car is actually described in the owner's manual.

[@wendydarmanin5195]

Excellent video, wish all videos could be like this. Well done.

[@eyeswideopen7126]

Hey my 2012 soft top is not opening.. any recommendations?

[@TopHydraulics]

Hey I will need some more details. Any messages in the instrument cluster when you try to move the top? Do the windows go down?

[@eyeswideopen7126]

@@TopHydraulics hey thanks for the reply... windows go up and down. But there is no movement when using the center mechanism for the roof.

[@eyeswideopen7126]

Also no messages.. whilst driving it does say car needs to be under 25mph . Then when I stop no messages at all

[@ricklampe77]

It's either electrical (limit switch or fuses), hydraulic, or o-ring. Just watch the video and trace it down.

[@eyeswideopen7126]

@@ricklampe77 water and drinks had got into the mechanism over the years. Had to take off the panel.. give it a good clean along with the connections with wd40. Now its all good. Thanks for reply

[@altops4490]

wot du yu do if the tonneu locks wont rotate at all?

[@TopHydraulics]

Thanks for asking. I assume that you are referring to the round buttons on the bottom of the tonneau cylinders. The tonneau cover gets moved by the two black tonneau cylinders p/n 2098001272. The cover latches in the front by sliding into position. At the same time, it latches in the rear by keeping the tonneau cylinders fully retracted and locked in place via the latch mechanism on the bottom of the cylinders, and that must be what you are referring to. You can release these bottom latches by first pulling the buttons out about 1/4", and then rotating them 90 degrees clockwise. If they are hard to turn, then try leaning a little on the rear of the tonneau cover to relieve pressure on the bottom locks.

[@altops4490]

@@TopHydraulics no the plastic lid locks...

[@kamalothman2785]

@@TopHydraulics please can you help me.. In this problem.. When I want to open the soft top.. Car give me this masessge [ please close skibag ].. And don't open. While the skibag already closed.. Thanks CLK200 2005

[@TopHydraulics]

@@kamalothman2785 Thanks for asking. This is a very common problem with the CLK top operation. There are two gas struts that hold the ski bag (also known as trunk partition or luggage divider) in place. They are basically springs, and they tend to wear out between age 10-15 years. The ski bag triggers micro switch S84/9 that gives the computer the "ski bag closed" signal. When the struts lose their gas charge, they don't push the ski bag far enough against that switch inside the trunk. We have a troubleshooting video, in which this issue is described in detail. We are talking about this particular issue starting at minute 1:22: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kH2slaKfrMR-irs The part number for the struts is 2096900059. The original Mercedes parts are currently about $40/ea, and you can find cheaper aftermarket parts. Here is our playlist of CLK do-it-yourself videos: kzbin.info/aero/PLly4CMbpk7owNRAl-AECemIb0SVihtBlV

[@kamalothman2785]

@@TopHydraulics Thanks for help bro I'll try to follow up your steps to solve my problem. Best regards

[@sebastianlawrence9406]

I took my top off this way and it’s stuck

[@SpeedserviceGR]

The best video on the youtube that explains clearly and with simple words how to do this.!!!

[@colbytripp1270]

Your video was a great help Klaus. I own an 07 CLK 350 and occasionally the top won't close when I hit the switch. The switch will operate the windows after double clicking however. When this happens there is not warnings on the dash indication other issues like experienced with the trunk partition issue.

[@TopHydraulics]

Do you get a "top in operation" message in the dash while pushing the button?

[@colbytripp1270]

@@TopHydraulics No messages at all. Just nothing. 4 days later I tried again and works every time.

[@davesnyder2458]

Thank you Klaus! As a new owner of an A209, these videos are a big help.

[@urinetrouble3661]

I made the mistake of closing the toneau cover all the way before putting the bow in place. How do I open the toneau cover now? it seems to be locked in place? Thanks in advance!

[@TopHydraulics]

It takes two people pulling pretty hard on the tonneau cover hinges to manually open it. Simply follow the steps in the video. If the tonneau cover seems locked in place, then be sure to have the release buttons on the bottom of the tonneau cylinders in the open position, which is sticking out about 1/4" farther from the cylinder than in the locked position.

[@urinetrouble3661]

Thank you I will give it a try.

[@urinetrouble3661]

Thanks again! Boy I had to pull hard...you were not kidding! Got it all back together. I disconnected the battery while doing all this but now that I have it back together a new issue popped up. When operating the top down button it only does half the process. Drivers side rear small window only goes down about six inches, the bow starts ti lift up and the storage cover slides back a few inches then everything stops. Any ideas?

[@TopHydraulics]

@@urinetrouble3661 Let's step back a little. Why did you manually close the tonneau cover the first time around - what were the exact symptoms before?

[@urinetrouble3661]

I replaced the rear passenger window regulator. Long tedious process but got it done.